'Step back you're worth it' - Teenager's life-saving messages receive police commendation

One of the 40 notes left by Paige Hunter at Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland.

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A teenager who has stopped six people from taking their own lives by pinning messages of hope to a bridge in Sunderland has been commended by the region's police force.

Paige Hunter, 18, left 40 notes on the Wearmouth Bridge offering comfort to those tackling mental health problems.

In one of her notes she wrote: "This isn't how it ends."

The Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent, Sarah Pitt, recognised the teenager's selfless act with a commendation certificate.

Describing the significance of Ms Hunter's random act of kindness, she said:

“Paige has shown an incredible understanding of vulnerable people in need of support, and this is an innovative way to reach out to those in a dark place.

“For somebody so young, Paige has shown a real maturity and we thought it would only be right to thank her personally. She should be very proud of herself."

Ms Hunter who works as a sales assistant at Poundworld said: “I wasn’t doing this for an award; it was just something that I wanted to do."

An example of Paige Hunter's messages of hope.

Here are a few examples of notes penned by Ms Hunter:

The Northumbria police force say the advise front line officers on how to deal with people they come in to contact with who may be struggling with mental health issues.
Since posting her messages, Paige Hunter has received a lot of positive feedback.

If you are in distress or need some support, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123 or you can visit their website here.