A WOMAN has launched an awareness campaign to help people battling mental health issues, after her mother died in tragic circumstances.

Melissa Kirk, of Caerleon Road, Newport, has launched a fundraising page and is holding a Christmas charity night in aid of mental health charity, Newport Mind, and in memory of her mother, Joanne Beaumont.

The mum-of-three, 47, took her own life on Mother’s Day this year after a long battle against bipolar and depression.

Mrs Kirk, 27, described her mother as “an amazing lady who would do anything for anybody”.

She said her battle against mental health was kept hidden away from all but those closest to her.

“Everybody who knew her would have known her as the beautiful, bubbly, loud and outgoing person that she was,” said Mrs Kirk, a mother of three.

“But under that mask she fought a daily battle that nobody saw. Her day to day life was difficult.

“On Mother’s Day, the day that everybody was celebrating their love for their mothers, mine and my family’s world came crashing down around us.”

David Bowen, senior coroner for Gwent, recorded the death of Ms Beaumont as a suicide in an inquest last month.

Mrs Kirk said she is now determined to raise awareness about the issue, which she believes affects many more people.

After the Christmas charity night at The Ferns in Lliswerry Road, Newport, she is planning to hold other fundraising events to raise awareness.

She said: “The reason I am doing this is because I could not save my mum but by doing this I hope I may be able to help or save someone else.”

The charity night will take place on December 8, starting at 7pm, and will include a buffet, entertainments, raffle and auction.

The family is aiming to raise £1,500 for Newport Mind, with tickets for the event costing £10 per person. Welsh boxer Lee Selby has supported the appeal by donating a signed boxing glove, while Newport County AFC has donated a signed football to be auctioned off on the night.

Nearly £150 has been raised on a JustGiving page to date. To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Mentalhealthchristmascharitynight. For tickets, call Melissa Kirk on 07564674893.