A MEMORIAL service will be held at Saints next month for those affected by suicide.

Last year, the Star reported that St Helens has the highest suicide rate in England and Wales, after figures highlighted that between 2015 to 2017, the borough had a suicide rate of 17.9 – more than 8 per cent higher than the 9.6 national average.

St Helens had 29 suicides recorded both in 2017 and 2016, and 25 recorded in 2015.

This year an event will be hosted to remember those who died by suicide at an event at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Wednesday, April 10.

It will be hosted by Listening Ear’s AMPARO service – with support from a number of partners including St Helens Council’s Public Health Team and Saints RLFC.

The event will be an opportunity for members of the public to remember loved ones through sharing stories and a digital photo memorial wall.

For those wishing to attend, the service will take place from 7pm 9.30pm.

If you would like a share a photo of your loved one at the event, email publichealth@sthelens.gov.uk

If you have been affected by suicide and would like support, the following services are available:

AMPARO by calling 0330 0889255 or emailing referrals@listening-ear.co.uk

You can also visit listening-ear.co.uk/amparo.

SOBS by calling 0300 1115065 or emailing sobs.support@hotmail.com

Alternatively visit uksobs.org

If you are worried about someone, visit St Helens Council's Mental Health and Wellbeing Support page for information about services and other support.