A WREXHAM woman has made a major donation to a cause close to her heart.

Sandra Roberts has been fundraising for the mental health charity MIND following her brother’s death after mental health troubles.

She told the Leader how her brother, Brian, was a “much-loved part of the family” and has previously paid tribute to him through the Leader.

Ms Roberts set up a fundraising page in his memory last summer.

She said: “There have been many bumps in the road during this time, but I have been determined to try to continue to raise awareness of how important mental health is through my GoFundMe page.

“Just thinking of my brother’s determination throughout his life has spurred me on.”

Ms Roberts has donated an incredible £1,700 to North East Wales MIND and wanted to express her thanks to all those who took the time to make a difference with her.

She said: “I sincerely want to thank everyone who has kindly and generously donated in my brother’s memory.

"This includes all of his colleagues and managers within Royal Mail, where he worked for 25 years as a postie. Some there have made multiple donations.

“I also want to thank my colleague within the Radiology Department and Shooting Star Unit at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital for their help in purchasing Rainbows made in my brother’s memory.”

She added that the donation being made this week was made all the more poignant with it being Mental Health Awareness Week and the spotlight being shone on what mental health services are available.

Sandra went on to say that she now wants more funding to be made available for mental health services within Welsh communities.

She said: “They are an essential service, much needed, as people are not just a number. They matter to family, friends, colleagues and neighbours.

Sandra also appealed to those who may be struggling with their mental health – especially after managing during the multiple COVID-19 lockdowns and uncertainties looking forward.

She said: “I want to appeal to anyone who is thinking of giving up, to please speak out. There are various ways to do this through helplines, friends, neighbours, GPs and colleagues.

“It takes courage but from even the darkest cloud comes a rainbow. Please don’t lose hope, speak out.”

Hayley Fisher, fundraising lead, said: “We’d like to thank Sandra for her continued support of North East Wales Mind and the thoughtfulness she has shown in fundraising for the people who rely on our help.

“During the pandemic many more people have been struggling with their mental health - some estimates expect up to 40 per cent more people will be seeking mental health support in the coming year.

“Sandra’s generation donation will help us provide extra information, advice and a listening ear for those that so desperately need it.”

North East Wales Mind’s Wellbeing Centre in Mold is a welcoming space that helps people through counselling, talking therapies, and a range of wellbeing activities and training.

Get in touch with them on 01352 974430 or email enquiries@newmind.org.uk.