A Salisbury grandmother is "overjoyed" to have raised an amazing five-figure sum for mental health through an "emotional" charity gala.

Lucie Jones' event at the Guildhall on Saturday November 13 was a huge success, with a total of £14,360 raised for the Lions Barber Collective and Salisbury Samaritans.

The 52-year-old "can't thank the people of Salisbury enough" for their generosity, as well as that of businesses who donated prizes for the raffle or otherwise supported the sold-out event.

Read more: 'I've got to do something': Grandmother hosts huge charity gala for mental health

Sims provided catering, The Treblemakers played for free while Brunton Media produced a short video as a tribute to those who lost their lives to mental health.

Goforit Investments matched ticket sales of £7,000 to help reach the overall total.

Businesses who donated prizes included: Tribbecks Jewellers; Naked Bagel; Beckles Beauty Barn; Car Doran from the market; Toni & Guy; The Market Inn; Everest Brasserie; Halo Hair; TMD hair; George & Dragon; Jeff Ts barbers; Luke PC Doctor.

"My aim was to not only raise funds but also raise awareness," said Lucie.

"Guests said that this had opened their eyes and they would be checking in on family and friends more often to ask how they were. 

"During my speech I highlighted the importance of recognising signs of mental health, asking questions, listening, offering support and help."

The grandmother-of-nine who lives in Durrington organised the gala in support of her friends who lost sons to mental health.

The event had to be postponed because of the pandemic but Covid made the cause even more relevant.

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