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‘Incredible’ Gloucestershire Woman Unveils County’s First Suicide Prevention Bench

Friday, July 17, 2026 suicide prevention mentalhealth gloucestershire community awareness fundraising legacy support hope

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.