THE LIFE of a college student has been remembered by family, friends and loved ones during Mental Health Awareness Week.

Molly Carter, who took her own life in 2017 at the age of 20, has been remembered by friends and staff at Nelson and Colne College in an event which saw a new bench unveiled in her memory.

The event, which was named ‘In Molly’s Memory’, not only saw the reveal of the new bench which will serve as a place for sitting and thinking, but also saw a memorial walk around Victoria Park take place.

Described as ‘outgoing’ and ‘caring’ the former hairdressing student was in the thoughts of all in attendance on the day.

Kim Tillotson, one of Molly's close friends, said: “It was an emotional day, but we remembered the good times we shared with Molly.

“I think it’s hard for young people to talk about their mental health but we are raising awareness of the services and support that is available and the fact that there is always somebody there to listen.”

Chantelle Singleton, another of Molly’s friends added: “Molly was such an outgoing person, she was always smiling and she was great fun to be around."

A raffle raising funds for mental health charity Addaction was also held, supported by donations from local salons and suppliers.

A collection of practical items such as toiletries for the mental health wards at Burnley General Hospital was equally well supported.

This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week at NCC was stress and students at the college received information, tips and resources on how to cope with stress, particularly around the exam period.

Claire Pye, Head of Section for Hair and Beauty at Nelson and Colne College said: “Through holding the ‘In Molly’s Memory’ event, we want to encourage our students to come forward if they have any issues around mental health so that we can direct them and help them access support that they may need. We also now have a poignant reminder of Molly with her bench so that she can be remembered forever.”

Rebecca Pope from the Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Community Restart Team said: “I’m really proud that the event was a fitting way to remember Molly. The sun was shining and it was as if she was looking down on us watching the walk and the unveiling of the bench.

“‘In Molly’s Memory’ was about raising awareness of mental health and to really highlight the message that it’s okay not to be okay."