Woman, 47, took her own life after struggling with menopause symptoms

In memory of their dear friend, bar staff at a pub in Swinton are setting up a menopause support network for any women wanting to talk.

Charlotte Sumbland, 47, tragically took her own life after struggling with symptoms of perimenopause.

Staff at The White Swan in Cheshire - Charlotte's local - have pledged to spread awareness around the menopause with plans to launch a meeting.

The pub say it will be a place for women to come on a regular basis to share their experiences and receive advice.

The White Swan’s landlady Lyndsey Smethills said: "We want to organise a group so that women have somewhere to go, to let off steam, to chat and to know they aren't on their own.

"In fact, we'd like to hear from any experts who feel they can help us set up the group and offer guidance to its members."

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All of this is to honour Charlotte, with her friend Stacy Stewart an employee at The White Swan.

Stacy is still reeling from the tragic day she found out Charlotte was no longer with us.

She said: "I still remember the phone call. I just couldn't believe it. Charlotte and I were so close and had children the same age – our sons, who are 16, were born nine days apart.

"I just couldn't believe what I was hearing when the news was given to me."

She continued: "Charlotte had been talking a lot about the perimenopause – she felt panicky, stressed and suffered sweats. But I still can't believe she felt so bad that she felt she had no option but to do what she did.

"Part of the reason it's so hard to come to terms with is that Charlotte was always a problem solver. If you had an issue, she'd find a way forward.

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"We had actually been on holiday to Spain the week before and she was enjoying herself, but then would start panicking and sighing about her situation."

Since Charlotte's tragic death, Stacy has said she has heard of other women 'who feel this desperate' as a result of symptoms from the menopause.

"That's why it's important we do something not only to remember her, but also to let other women know they are not on their own," she added.

Stacy organised a walk last month in aid of the Menopause Charity, which works to improve women's and healthcare professionals' understanding of the menopause.

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The walk started at St Anne’s Church in Clifton, before heading to Scout Moor in Rochdale.

And it all wrapped up with a pint raised in Charlotte's memory at The White Swan.

So far, Stacy and friends have raised £7,500 in Charlotte's name.

If you have been affected by the contents of this article or are struggling in any way call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.