This week, Gloucester witnessed a poignant moment as former Spurs footballer Micky Hazard traveled to unveil Gloucestershire’s very first suicide prevention bench, honoring those lost to suicide and raising awareness about mental health. The bench stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of Mary Barnes, 75, who raised over £2,300 in just two months to make the installation a reality.
Mary’s journey began after the heartbreaking loss of her long-term partner, Paul Close, who tragically took his own life at 64 in July 2024. “His death came so out of the blue,” Mary shared, reflecting on the shock and confusion she experienced. She had no indication of the struggles Paul faced behind closed doors.
Inspired by the charity Legend on the Bench, founded by former footballer Micky Hazard and his sister Michelle (who herself lost her son to suicide in 2019), Mary was moved to fundraise and bring a bench to Gloucestershire. Since February 2024, the charity has installed over 150 suicide prevention benches across the UK and Ireland.
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On July 15, exactly two years after Paul’s passing, the bench was unveiled outside the Phoenix Café at Abbeydale Sports and Community Centre. Local dignitaries, including Mayor Adrian Graham, and Micky Hazard, who traveled from Essex, attended the event.
The bench features the phrase “Someone is always listening” and a plaque listing important mental health helpline numbers such as Samaritans, M.I.N.D, Suicide Prevention UK, Childline, and Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide. A solar-powered light atop the bench serves as a beacon of hope during nighttime, visible from afar and accessible around the clock.
What makes this bench particularly special is Mary’s personal touch: she invited the community to submit names of loved ones lost to suicide. Alongside Paul’s name, 30 others are engraved on a plaque, symbolizing a collective remembrance and a call to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
“I didn’t want this bench to be just about my story,” Mary said. “I want people to feel connected, to talk openly about mental health, and to know they’re not alone. When I started, I thought there’d be maybe a dozen names. Now there are 31—just from people I know or who have passed on the message.”
Mary reflected on the days leading up to Paul’s death, recalling how he hid his pain. Diagnosed with early onset dementia months prior, Paul was aware of the pressure his illness placed on Mary, who had cared for her own mother through the condition.
Despite planning enjoyable outings like a trip to the Isle of Man TT, Paul’s struggle remained unseen. “He dropped me at work that day, made a joke as I left,” Mary recounted. “I had no idea what he was contemplating.”
The support Mary received in her fundraising efforts left her overwhelmed. “It all happened quickly, and people came together to support this cause. I expected a small gathering, but the turnout, including the Mayor and councilors, was incredible,” she said.
Micky Hazard praised Mary’s dedication, calling her efforts “absolutely incredible.” Reflecting on the significance of each bench, he said, “Each unveiling fills me with pride and emotion. Mary’s bench is a legacy that will save lives.”
Mayor Adrian Graham echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness. “Many in Gloucester have been touched by suicide. This bench helps break the stigma around mental health. It’s inspiring to see the community’s response, and I hope more benches like this can be installed.”
The suicide prevention bench is now located at Abbeymead Community Centre, offering a place of reflection, remembrance, and hope for all.