'I miss him every single day': Wigan mum completes special walk in memory of her son
A Wigan mum has completed a memory walk for her beloved son, who died three years ago.
Matthew Derbyshire was only 35 years old when he died due to suicide.
He was Wigan born and bred, a father and loved going to the pub with his mates.
His mum Rose Derbyshire said: “He absolutely adored his son and he had loads of friends, in fact, more than I ever knew. His funeral was the busiest funeral I’d ever been to and even the undertaker said they’d never seen this many people.
“He was well into his Man United and was a joiner but through joinery became skilled at other things like tiling, plumbing and electrics, so he was handy to have around. He was a proper joker and loved playing tricks on people, he was hilarious.”
Matthew battled with mental ill health and died on October 21, 2023.
To keep Matthew’s memory alive, each year Rose organises a memory walk, which starts at his tree in Appley Bridge’s Meadows area.
Rose said: “This memory walk means so much to me. We did it last year and managed to raise £900 for Andy’s Man Club. So when I was asked to do it again this year, I said ‘yes’ without hesitation. It’s a coming together to remember Matthew, whose life touched so many.”
She added: "Andy’s Man Club is a wonderful charity that provides support to men who feel vulnerable and also encourages them to talk and express their feelings and not to ever feel alone. My son wasn’t aware of the charity at the time, but I’m sure that if he had been aware of it, then perhaps he would have got more help and support that was needed.”
Alongside the memory walk, local postman Chris House completed a 60-mile run and people came together at The Boathouse pub.
More than £1,500 was raised for Andy’s Man Club and Appley Bridge Community Association.
Rose said: “The day was really good. There was lots of stuff for the kids to do, but unfortunately the weather wasn't great. But it didn't stop them from having a good time.”
If you’re struggling, Samaritans are here to help by visiting www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan.