Praise for thousands who joined army of cliff angels to help prevent deaths

We reported how three thousand people have joined a Facebook group to keep people safe on the clifftops.Kirk Wilson, from Holder House, South Shields, launched the group after seeing emergency services along the coastline battling to save 17-year-old Chirelle Calder earlier this month.

The news of the group's success has been met with praise from readers, with some offering to help themselves.

Danielle Nessworthy said: "Personally I think Kirk Wilson and his family have come up with an amazing idea that has already proved to be helping a huge amount.

"Everyone has their own opinion but he has a family and a full time job and is willing in his spare time to set this all up,help people and maybe prevent all these sad things that are happening.

"Huge good luck to him and everyone else that has joined and helping."

Danielle Pickle Nicholas said: "I think this is a great idea and it's nice for our community to all muck in and want to help the more vulnerable people."

Neil Carrahar Great idea! This just needs to save one life and it will have been worth everyone's efforts.

Nicola Allison said: "Maybe very surprising how a lot of people feeling this way just need someone to sit and listen to them. We need to show people that feel this way that someone cares! I think this is a great idea."

Sharon Wanless said: "Living on the coast to hear the helicopter and the sad news the next day. Wishing you all the best kirk Wilson and all angels, every life saved is amazing."

Joanne Marie Milner said: "Lovely idea. People who feel so low do need care and support from others and it saves lives.

"Please lobby your MPs and join groups against austerity cuts to mental health services to make the biggest difference. Support mental health charity campaigns. There are trained people who can help and we need more available.Mass protest action to increase local and national mental health services is the way forward."

Helen Mitchell said: "They have this scheme in Wexford Harbour in Ireland, where my friend lives, and it has vastly reduced incidents!"

Some, however, had concerns about the project.

Rachel Thompson-Chapman said: "Unfortunately these are very desperate people, So will just chose a different spot? If they're that desperate they'll do it regardless. I do think it's an excellent idea in principle."

Lee Calvert said: "If people choose to end their life then putting a cabin there isn't going to help anyone.

"I understand why people may believe it's a good idea l. But any person in that state of mind will read about this and just think of another way of ending their life."

David Simon said: "Brilliant idea, really hope it does work but I hope anyone volunteering is prepared mentally to deal with someone who does jump."

Kirk Wilson responded to the concerns on our Facebook page.

He said: "I did this to raise awareness more than anything as to many people feel there is no way out. The hub/cabin if it goes ahead will act as a place where people can go to talk and might just save a life's.

"These people will be fully trained in suicide prevention and dealing with vulnerable people. They will also be able to keep local emergency services informed of anything happens and if there is any accidents.

"If the cabin isn't approved we will create a cafe where people can all meet with one to one rooms so people can talk and share success stories to help others.

"I'm also speaking to the National trust about getting more Samaritan signs with glow in dark signs so people can see if at night if they are in desperate help. Thanks everyone for your honest comments."

Joan Arc added: "Amazing idea, even knowing someone cares can change a persons concept. I'm a Samaritan and will be happy to help.

"If a person is suicidal and you can keep them on the phone for a least 20,minutes you can talk them out of it. Remember suicide attempt can be a cry for help. And many people may not want to go through with it. Just feel no one is there to help."