A NEW suicide prevention bench has been unveiled in Walton.
The bench was installed at the lifeboat station on The Parade, is part of the Legend on the Bench project.
The project was founded by former Spurs professional footballer Micky Hazard, and aims to prevent suicide and support people struggling with their mental health.
Each bench features a QR code linking to a directory of professional mental health support services.
Colin Merryweather led the unveiling, as Micky was unable to attend on the day.
He said: "I had the honour and privilege this morning to stand in for former Spur Micky Hazard and, alongside Michelle and Kerry from the charity, present our latest Legend on the Bench suicide prevention and mental health support bench."
This was the 101st bench unveiled so far across the UK.
Micky said: "Every unveiling is special.
"There’s always a powerful moment when the cover comes off and the bench is revealed, the realisation of what we are achieving together truly hits home.
"That feeling never fades. It’s humbling, emotional, and incredibly inspiring."
The bench was made possible through the efforts of lead fundraiser Emma Lacey and her team, including members of the Walton on the Naze and Frinton RNLI crew.
Emma said: "A special thank you to Michelle, Kerry, and Colin from Legend on the Bench for their support and dedication.
Read more
"Although we reached the fundraising target for the bench, the work of Legend on the Bench continues, and ongoing support is still so important.
"Every donation helps the charity reach more people and create more spaces like this one.
"Thank you again for standing with me, for believing in this project, and for helping bring something meaningful into our community."
Share