Dad's heartfelt message after son took his own life at Carlisle farm

Thomas Davidson Hetherington had been visiting his grandparent's farm in Blackford, north of Carlisle, for their usual Sunday lunch on February 13, 2022. 

After being reported missing, sadly he was discovered by a family member to have taken his own life as a result of a breakdown in friendships. 

His dad, Richy Hetherington, described Thomas (affectionately known as Tots) as an 'incredibly creative kid' with a unique perspective on life.

"He had a real sense of himself, was interesting, loving and sweet - it's bizarre to think he'd fallen out with his friends because so many thought so much of him," he said. 

In light of the tragic events, Richy has been working with renowned artists to release a collaborative album, titled Songs for T, with all proceeds going to the charities Papyrus and Kidscape, dedicated to preventing youth suicide and bullying. 

Thomas Hetherington, pictured wearing his dad Richy's Parka coat, at the beach. (Image: Supplied)

Richy hopes that through the emotionally charged 'lo-fi and authentic' album they can send a powerful message that 'there is always another way', and he urges anyone struggling with their mental health to reach out and seek help. 

"If you have to smash every window in the school to be heard, do that, rather than kill yourself. 

"Please just find somebody to talk to and get some support," he said. 

Music is an essential part of the family's lives, as it was Thomas'. 

Together with family and friends, they created Happy Sundays in Newcastle, an NME award-winning initiative catering for afternoon gigs for kids to experience live music - a project for which Thomas was very much at the centre. 

Thomas' favourite artist was Jeffrey Lewis,  a renowned American singer-songwriter and comic book artist. The artist became one of the many to contribute to the album. 

Songs for T will be released on August 4 on Bandcamp and on vinyl come October. (Image: Supplied)

The album cover also holds a special significance as it features Thomas' own drawings, designed by Billy Woodhouse from Lots of Hands.

Richy said he was inspired by the effort of Three Dads Walking, in their fight for suicide prevention to be taught in schools.

"They are doing such an amazing thing, the way they keep knocking on that door - if you were to ask why wouldn't they teach suicide prevention in schools, I can't imagine anyone has a reasonable response for saying it shouldn't be part of the discussions in school.  

"It can't be worse than being the biggest killer for people under 35," he said.

Richy gave special thanks to Nicole (Mage Tears), Billy (Lots of Hands), Lee and Jo (Fuzzdog),  Andrew Sparaco, and most importantly his family, Hope and Gill. 

The album is available on pre-sale now, with a contribution being made towards the charities. 

Songs for T will also be available on vinyl in October but can also be purchased from Bandcamp Friday on August 4, with all the proceeds going to both charities. 

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org