A woman who has been personally touched by the pain of losing loved ones to suicide is determined to help people who suffer depression with a fundraiser.

Kelly Galvin from Reed is running the Great North Run in memory of her uncle Eddie who took his own life, a tragic event which she says “never leaves you”.

The 33-year-old, who works in marketing, said: “Losing loved ones to suicide is one of the most painfully confusing and frustrating feelings, which is why I chose Mind mental health.

“Unfortunately my father’s family suffer dreadful depression.

“Mental health problems are so common. Several people I have known and shared special times with have tragically taken their own lives and you always think ‘what could have been said to have stopped that happening?’

“My family all come across as the most outgoing and strong characters, you wouldn’t expect it.

“When I found out about Mind it made me think of my uncle and I knew I couldn’t run for anybody else. I always make sure I have a really healthy lifestyle because I know my family have suffered terribly.

“People say it’s hereditary and I’m so determined for it to not come into my life. People get embarrassed about talking about it. I know many others have been touched by the illness.”

Kelly will hold a fundraising event on Saturday at the Old Bull Inn in Royston High Street from 8pm until midnight, with two live bands set to perform.

Prices are £5 on the door which includes a raffle strip. Her fitness mad husband Thomas won’t be running with her, but has put a lot into helping arrange the event on Saturday.

Prizes include meals for two at The British Queen in Meldreth, The Green Man in Shepreth, Chequers in Barley, The Belle in Bassingbourn, The Chilli Lounge in Baldock, The Coffee Pot in Melbourn, The Buntingford Kitchen, Sheene Mill in Melbourn and more.

Kelly said: “The world and his wife are welcome, the more the merrier. Dress code is loud and proud for ladies and awful shirts for men.”

If you would like to donate to Kelly’s fundraising efforts you can go to www.justgiving.com/kellygalvin81