A MOTHER whose son took his own life says it is time to tackle the stigma surrounding the "taboo topic" of suicide.

Tomorrow would have been the 23rd birthday of Ben Williams, a former Ilkley Grammar School pupil.

In his memory and to raise awareness of young suicide, his mother Emma Walker has organised a HOPEWalk to support national charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide.

It is the second such walk Emma has organised since the tragic death of her son in July 2014, aged just 21. In October last year the family walked across Rombalds Moor to raise money for PAPYRUS in memory of Ben.

Suicide is the main cause of death in young people in the UK under the age of 35 and Emma has put out a call for people to pull on their trainers and walking shoes and join her and her friends on the walk.

Emma’s HOPEWalk, leaves tomorrow, from the main Ilkley cemetery gate in Ashlands Road at 6.45pm (take a torch as it will be dark). The route of about three miles follows the road to the toll bridge, then up Carters Lane to Middleton, down Curley Hill to Ilkley.

Emma said she would be delighted for people to join the walk to support her mission to raise awareness that there is hope and help for young people who are struggling with life.

“It’s time to raise awareness and tackle the stigma about the taboo topic of suicide," said Emma.

"It is something nobody should be afraid or embarrassed to talk about. Young suicide can happen to any family. We need to talk so that young people will feel it is OK to seek help."

This is the third year of PAPYRUS HOPEWalks around the UK. Some people walk in memory of a loved one, others to support others in their loss, some simply to draw attention to the fact that over 1,600 young people in UK take their own lives every year.

The charity offers support and practical advice to young people worried about themselves and others concerned about a young person they know – what to say and do.

It is confidential and anonymity is respected by the trained professionals on its helpline team at HOPELineUK 0800 068 41 41 text 07786 209 697.

For any queries about Emma’s HOPEWalk please contact her on: emmawalker@hotmail.co.uk