A KIND-hearted woman who was concerned about what appeared to be a growing number of vulnerable people attempting suicide on Richmondshire bridges has collected almost 80 signs of love and support to attach to railings.

Annmarie Brown, from Catterick Garrison, said as a taxi driver she had heard of several instances where bridges in the area had been closed, but thankfully each time the person involved had been brought to safety.

However, she remembered seeing a bridge while out with her family that was covered in sign depicting messages of love, hope and positivity, and decided to replicate it.

She said: "I had to do something to help, however small.

"I thought the idea of attaching signs to the railings of bridges was a great idea, and I put out an appeal on Facebook for people to make some signs and got a great response.

"I have had a wide variety including letters from people as far away as Missouri, USA, who used to live here, to drawings by children.

"Anything that could make them think twice, or buy a bit of time before help can arrive.

"Perhaps reading a message of hope or seeing a picture by a child could be enough to save a life."

Mrs Brown said it was a long process to get the permission to put up the signs, but after contacting police, local councils and Highways, she finally got the approval she needed.

She said: "We have a fantastic community in and around Catterick and it has been great to see people get behind the idea.

"Once I get an idea to do something I have to act on it – I just want to help people."

The posters are A5 in size and have been printed in colour and laminated to make them stand out.

"I wanted to have about 80 signs because Scotch Corner bridge is really two bridges with four sets of railings.

"I'm hoping to go out with a small team later this month to put them up."

She added: "Living in the garrison you see veterans suffering with mental health but it seems to be everywhere now. "Depression and anxiety can affect anyone and it's important to recognise that."

Mrs Brown asked for any more signs to be passed into Star Cars offices at White Shops, Catterick Garrison, or to contact her via Facebook.