Art competition
A CALL has gone out for passionate artists to get involved in a Frodsham art competition.
Both amateurs and professionals are being encouraged to enter their work for the Castle Park Arts Centre’s 31st Open Art Exhibition.
It is not open to just painters, with the competition also looking for inspiring textiles, photographs, ceramics and glass pieces.
The exhibition will be displayed at Castle Park House from November 11 through to January 4.
An independent panel of judges, as well as visitors enjoying the art, will run the rule over the entries. Cash prizes are on offer as well as the opportunity for work to be snapped up by buyers.
More than 300 crafted pieces were submitted last year.
To show that age is no barrier, 11-year-old George Davies from Vicars Cross, won the People’s Choice award in 2015.
He wowed the public with ‘A gentle giant’, his African elephant depiction.
After George said that he was inspired by the work of David Shepherd CBE, the renowned conservationist sent a personal letter to congratulate him.
The Judge’s Choice prize was given to joint winners Ron Coleman, from Knutsford, and Jenny Holland, from Ruthin. Needless to say they all set a high standard.
Artists entering this year have until October 21 to submit their work.
For more information and to receive an entry form, contact artscentreincastlepark@ btinternet.com
AMENTAL health group serving Halton teamed up with a bereavement support charity and a former rugby league player to mark World Suicide Pre- vention Day with a short video to help those who have been affected by the issue.
To share some simple coping tips, 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust produced the video in partnership with Survivors Of Bereavement By Suicide (Sobs) charity and former Super League player Ian Knott, who drew on his own personal experiences of feeling suicidal in the hope of helping others.
A spokeswoman for the organisation said thta more than 6,000 UK residents took their lives in 2014 alone.
World Suicide Prevention Day, on Saturday, September 10, aims to reduce this number.
This year’s theme was about connecting with others and letting them know that ‘it’s OK to talk’.
A short video produced by the 5 Boroughs trust has put the subject in the spotlight by encouraging people concerned about a loved one to start a conversation about how they are feeling.
The spokeswoman said anyone feeling suicidal should seek immediate help by calling Samaritans for free 24 hours a day on 116 123, their GP for an emergency appointment or the NHS on 111.
Dr Phil Cooper, 5 Boroughs nurse consultant, also appeared in the clip, offering advice.
He said: “Suicide is currently the biggest killer of men aged between 20 and 49 in the UK but suicidal thoughts and feelings can affect anyone.
“If you are feeling suicidal, the best thing you can do is speak to some- one you trust – whether that’s a family member, a friend or your GP.
“It’s important to remember that help is available and talking to someone about how you’re feeling is an important step to getting that support and feeling better.
“If you are worried about a family member or friend, let them know you’re there for them.
“Sometimes, just asking ‘are you OK?’ can be enough to bring someone back from feeling suicidal.”
Anyone affected by the suicide of someone close to them can call Sobs on 0800 003 7029 or visit uksobs.org.uk