Suicide memorial quilt project backed by Chris Packham

The Hampshire and IOW Speak Their Name (STN) Suicide Memorial Quilt will be unveiled ahead of a year-long tour that will include Southampton and the New Forest.

Each square has been created by someone who has been bereaved by suicide.

Those involved were invited to sew, draw, paint or print something that was either meaningful or captured the essence of the person who died.

TV wildlife expert Chris Packham is backing the new suicide prevention and awareness campaign (Image: PA)

An STN spokesperson said: "Nothing can ever prepare anyone for the enormity of a loss by suicide. The pain the bereaved feel is overwhelming, long-lasting and life-changing.

"The quilt is lovingly dedicated to all those who have tragically ended their lives, honouring them as the unique people they were and show they are forever loved and will never be forgotten."

Mr Packham, who lives in the Forest, said: "Most people don't take their lives because they want to hurt those who love them.

"They do so because they have lost the ability to connect to those who love and protect them. Tragically, they have slipped beyond reach.

"Despite contemporary awareness of mental health issues, suicide remains a reality for many people who are unable to get the support they need.

"Autistic people like myself are disproportionately affected - up to 35 per cent have planned or attempted suicide.

"Every thread of this memorial quilt connects the lives of loved ones, both present and past. It exists as a material manifestation of love and I hope it will help make the world a less hostile place for those who have reached a terrible crisis point."

Lara Kynvin was treated at Marchwood Priory Hospital after suffering from depression (Image: Newsquest)

One of the people who made the quilt has dedicated one of the squares to her son.

She said: "This quilt has meant so much to me - I’m not very good at sewing and I cried with every stitch - that’s how much it meant to me even after all these years."

The project leaders are Lara Kynvin, of Waterlooville, and Beeb Deacon, of Southampton, who met earlier this year through a suicide prevention forum.

Beeb lost her daughter Bryony to suicide in 2012.

Lara attempted to take her own life after suffering from depression in 2021. She attended Marchwood Priory Hospital, where she received the care and treatment she needed to recover.

The quilt will be unveiled today at Victoria Park in Portsmouth.

It will be on display at Portsmouth Cathedral in Old Portsmouth before beginning its tour of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on September 27.