AN ABERYSTWYTH woman’s experience of post-natal depression has inspired her to help raise money for a local mental health charity.

Hawys Roberts, who is vice-chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith in Ceredigion, has decided to organise an auction as part of the campaign group’s week of fund-raising, with half of the proceeds going to the Aberystwyth branch of Mind.

The auction, which will take place at Llety Parc, Aberystwyth, at 7pm on Friday, 9 September, will include a signed Joe Allen Wales football shirt, among many other items.

Taking of her experience suffering with post-natal depression following the birth of her second daughter, Hawys said: “The months following Beca’s birth were very difficult.

“I felt hopeless, frustrated and full of guilt. I feel there is a lack of understanding of mental health in general, and Mind does very valuable work in the community to reach out to people in need of help.

“People won’t go out of their way to ask for health care in Welsh, all they want is to have their treatment and get well.

“That’s especially true with mental health services — the ability to talk and get information about mental health is so important, but so rare at present. Mind will be able to use the money to develop their resources in Welsh.

“We been very lucky to have local people and businesses’ support — almost all the lots have been donated locally.

“Wyn Mel has contributed a picture, the Farmers’ in Llanfihangel y Creuddyn have donated a Sunday lunch for two, Bridget James has contributed fitness sessions, there’s a cake for a special occasion by local cake artist, Megan Walton, and a host of other prizes — there’s a full list on our website.”