SIBLINGS from Skipton devastated by the death of their brother have launched a petition to keep his name alive – and to help others afflicted by mental health problems.

Samuel Carroll, 20, was found dead in May, leaving behind his heartbroken mother, Tracey, and five brothers and sisters, including twin brother, Steven.

Now, the family has launched the 'Samuel's Rainbow' petition in a bid to reach 10,000 signatures, calling on Parliament to raise awareness of the dangers of depression and other mental health issues, especially among young men who may be reluctant to speak about their problems.

Samuel's sister, Hayley, 24, said: "Our brother was a bubbly, lively personality – a real cheeky chappy – and his death came out of the blue.

"We want something positive to come out of losing Samuel. He had been down after we lost our father to cancer in September 2014, which obviously devastated us all.

"Samuel never really spoke about how he was feeling, though he was obviously low. He had been seen in Airedale Hospital, but doctors thought he was not at high risk.

"It would mean so much to us as a family, and to Samuel's memory, if we could get 10,000 signatures to help make a change for other young boys and men. We want to give all men a voice that's heard, and to say that it's okay for them to open up and to ask for support when they need it.

"We'd all like to thank everyone in Skipton – they have been fantastic and have helped so much to pull us through, especially our mother, Tracey."

Hayley said they will shortly be meeting Skipton MP Julian Smith to voice their concerns. And the petition has been backed by former British heavyweight boxing champion, Frank Bruno, and Leeds celebrity, DJ Tom Zanetti.

Hayley said: "We have already got almost 4,000 signatures in a few weeks, which is great.

"Ten thousand signatures are needed to get it put before Parliament and 100,000 to get MPs to respond, so we're well on the way. I ask everyone to support us so that young men don't feel they have to suffer in silence."

Samuel was found dead in woodland at Skipton's Whinny Gill Reservoir on May 5. A funeral service was held at Skipton's Holy Trinity Church.

Visit https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/130909 to sign the petition.

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