Candlelit vigils have been held across the borough to mark World Suicide Day.

A vigil was held outside Blackburn Town Hall on Saturday morning (October 8) and a second outside Darwen Town Hall in the afternoon.

The events were due to take place last month but were cancelled following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Lancashire Telegraph: Margaret Jepson, Mohamed Sidat, Sue Clarke from the Samaritans Margaret Jepson, Mohamed Sidat, Sue Clarke from the Samaritans (Image: Blackburn with Darwen Council)

There was a street theatre performance by Afta Thought, telling real-life stories of the impact of suicide, which gave a powerful message about the impact of suicide on individuals and their families and loved ones, before a 40-second silence.

The events offered the chance for people in the borough to remember those who have died by suicide and provide support for families who have been affected by the suicide of a loved one.

Lancashire Telegraph: Dignitaries and people involved in the vigils held in Blackburn and DarwenDignitaries and people involved in the vigils held in Blackburn and Darwen (Image: Lancashire Police)

The events also aimed to provide information for residents on how they can improve their mental well-being and mental health.

After the Blackburn service, men’s mental health groups, including Men in Sheds, Andy’s Man Club, Creative Football and Talk Ourselves Well, led a walk from the town centre to Darwen in advance of the second service.

Lancashire Telegraph: The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Cllr Suleman Khonat at the Blackburn eventThe Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Cllr Suleman Khonat at the Blackburn event (Image: Blackburn with Darwen Council)

Deputy leader for the council, Cllr Quesir Mahmood said: “One in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide.

“Each and every suicide is devastating and has a profound impact on those around them.

Lancashire Telegraph: Barry the Beagle with Chloe PilkingtonBarry the Beagle with Chloe Pilkington (Image: Blackburn with Darwen Council)

“The work we and our partners are doing is helping to break the stigma around suicide and helping people to talk more openly about it.”

Councillor Brian Taylor said: “It was incredibly difficult to have to postpone these vigils following the Queen’s death. However, it was felt that it was the right course of action at the time.

Lancashire Telegraph: Members of the public at the vigil in DarwenMembers of the public at the vigil in Darwen (Image: Blackburn with Darwen Council)

“I have lost two close relatives to suicide, so this is very important to me and is a subject very close to my heart. I want to help people and help to promote the available courses to help people become more comfortable talking about the subject of suicide.”

If you would like to complete Mental Health and Suicide Prevention training and become an Orange Badge holder, please visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/OrangeButtonScheme or complete the online training.