A FAMILY has vowed to help others after the horror of losing a beloved son after he was hit by a train.

Richard Hobart took his own life aged just 27 at Pitsea train station.

His devastated family still struggle to cope following the loss in December 2016 but have decided to dedicate time to honouring his legacy by raising money for mental health charities with Basildon Fun Day Festival.

Father Steve, 60, said: “We are hoping to bring families together to raise money for two great causes and also to raise awareness about the signs of people who may be battling mental health issues.

“Richard was an incredibly fit man who had an awful lot going for him.

“It has been absolutely devastating for us and changed us all forever. Each day goes by, it is just entrenched deeper that he is not coming back.

“The best advice we’ve been given is to keep busy. All our livelihoods have been affected by our grief but we found we wanted to do something to honour Richard and raise awareness of not just suicide but what the warning signs are.

“It’s very difficult to tell just how bad a person is feeling.”

Richard had a history of mental health difficulties and in the weeks leading up to his death had been struggling to sleep despite being prescribed sleeping tablets.

Steve added: “We knew he needed serious help. After a previous attempt, he promised he would never do it again and we made the mistake of believing him and that was our first big lack of education.

“We did everything we could to try and get him the help he needed but it just wasn’t available.”

Steve and his wife Debbie, 55, are hoping by raising awareness with a charity event and supporting charities, they can help others in the same situation.

The event will be held on June 2 at Basildon Sports and Leisure Club and Steve is looking for volunteers to take on a fire walk challenge which will be a highlight of the day.

“Me and Debbie have both done it before and it’s just a great symbol that shows you can do anything you believe is possible,” he said.

They are also hoping business will sponsor the event. The event will raise money for MIND Basildon and Reach Out for Mental Health. To find out more information visit basildonfundayfest.co.uk or contact Steve at stvhobart@gmail.com