A MOTHER has set up a charity which hopes to provide relaxing breaks for those who are suffering from mental illness in East Lancashire in order to keep the memory of her daughter alive.

Julie O’Keefe, 53, from Chorley was devastated when she lost her cherished daughter Emma Winstanley in September, 2010.

Emma 19, was found hanged just six weeks after her beloved grandfather, Bernard O’Keefe, took his own life.

A later inquest heard that Emma had suffered from depression and died while awaiting an assessment for bipolar disorder.

Now Julie, and other friends and family of Emma, have set up Emma’s Dream.

Their intention is to purchase and adapt a 60ft canal boat which will provide breaks for those who are suffering mental health issues.

The boat will use the Leeds Liverpool Canal and provide cruises through East Lancashire.

Julie, said: “I want to purchase the boat for my Emma.

“I don’t want my daughter to be forgotten.

“Our main fundraising at the moment is to raise funds for our 24-hour crisis line and for the purchase of a wide-beam barge which will give people with mental health issues a days break or a stress-free holiday.

“The barge will have to be dramatically redesigned as to meet peoples needs.

“This is no small task but with the help of the public, businesses and the narrowboat community we are confident we can pursue Emma’s Dream.”

Julie added that she was hoping to purchase the boat for £50,000.

Those wishing to help can find out more at emmasdreamfund.jimdo.com