A MUSICIAN whose best friend died from suicide is holding a music festival to raise money and awareness to help friends and families talk openly about the subject.

Ian Lawton, from Manchester, who has also battled with depression, will be hosting the event, headlined by St Helens-band Stillia on Saturday, March 25 at the Imperial Bar and Terrace on Ormskirk Street.

The event, held in memory of his friend Nick Drinkwater, who took his own life 10 years ago. It aims to raise awareness and tackle the stigma of talking about mental health and let those suffering know who they can talk to.

Ian, 32, said: “I’ve suffered greatly in the past with depression, I'm actually a suicide survivor, eight years ago, I had an attempt at ending my life.

“It's only a lot of luck that I am still here now and I want to use my second chance at life to speak up about this still taboo subject.

“My best friend actually died of suicide, leaving behind four children who have had to have help to deal with the trauma his death has caused.

“The point behind this event is to raise more awareness and make more people realise that talking to somebody can save lives. Hopefully I can hold even more in the future.

“We have more than 20 acts who have agreed to play at the event at no cost, with a BAFTA nominated actress Angela Samata also giving a talk.

“I’m a musician myself so it’s great to use music to potentially help others.”

Tickets for the Suicide Awareness Music Festival cost £7 and the event will run from 12pm to 7pm, with all proceeds going to mental health charity, MIND.

The line-up of more than 20 acts include: David O’Keefe, Denise Morgan, Wilf Hume, The High Tec Low Lives, The Dandy Lions, Blaylock with Ian also performing.

Children are welcome and a barbecue will also be held on the terrace.

To purchase tickets email ianlawtonmusic@mail.com or visit ianlawtonmusic.com