WE were interested to hear of the new charity being launched by Mr and Mrs Watts in response to their daughter Sophie’s death at such a young age. (Memories of caring star Sophie live on, Hereford Times, September 4).

We admire the way they have faced their sad loss and hope that this positive response will bring them comfort in their grief as well as raising awareness of bile duct cancer and funding research into this terrible illness.

Loss of a loved one is a hard thing to face and we all have different ways of coping. Friends, family and the local community can support us in our grief and help us to face a new life without the person. It is important that we each have someone to talk with, someone with whom we can share our sorrow.

However, some people may find this difficult ,not wanting to upset other family members for example.

At these times someone outside the family or our immediate friends can offer support and a listening ear. This is where Cruse Bereavement Volunteers may be able to help.

Bereavement volunteers are ordinary people who are trained to offer support to those who are grieving. This is usually through meeting on a one-to-one basis for a period of time either in the person’s home or another convenient place. Anyone feeling in need of this kind of help should contact our telephone line on 01432 359469.

Cruse is always looking for more volunteers, so for anyone who might like to become one, we are running a training course over eight Saturdays through the winter months. The course covers all aspects of loss and bereavement and leads towards a greater understanding of grief.

Further information is available by contacting Cruse Bereavement Care, PO Box 166, Herefordshire HR9 9BQ, email jnrich@phonecoop.coop or telephone 01989 763746.

We will be pleased to hear from you.

JULIA RICHARDSON Foy, Ross-on-Wye