"I've never walked on this bridge before without the intention of ending my life"

As thousands praise messages of hope that have been placed on the Tyne Bridge, we've been finding out why the three North East women behind them wanted to help save lives.

The notes, which say things such as "remember why you held on for so long" and "you are not alone" appeared yesterday on each side of the Tyne Bridge, and have been roundly celebrated on social media.

They were the idea of 20-year-old Megan Embleton from Wallsend, 19-year-old Lucy Mathison from Whitley Bay and 19-year-old Emily Gibson from Darlington, after they all faced their own struggles with mental health issues and suicidal thoughts.

Megan said:

"I think the first time we stepped on the bridge, we were all very emotional - but we just want to send that positive message to people that they're not alone and there is always hope."

Lucy said:

"It's just amazing because I've had people messaging me to say they felt down and they came across here, and the messages made them smile... words can't describe how much it means to me, it's so overwhelming."

Emily said:

"I've never walked on this bridge before without the intention of ending my life.

"It was the first time I'd ever walked on a bridge to do something positive, and with all the positive messages, it's such a positive experience that's helped changed the bridge in my mind."

Anyone who needs help can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.