A colourful display of woollen pom-poms has been placed in Sydenham in memory of a woman who ended her life last year.

The touching family tribute in Newlands Park is to raise awareness about mental health and to encourage those who need it to seek help.

Holly Cowlam, from Peckham, dedicated her life to children with autism and died last July aged 28.

Her family is now "pombombing" across the world to try and end the stigma of depression.

So far there are over 100 pomboms in nine different countries.

Her sister Anna Cessford and friend Claire Stidston told News Shopper: "So much colour left our world when Holly died, we were determined to create something in her memory that brought joy to those who loved her, but also to raise awareness and get people talking about difficult subjects."

Photos by Mark Drinkwater

News Shopper:

A note accompanying the pom-poms in Newlands Park in Sydenham reads: "This space has been pombombed in memory of Holly Cowlam and to raise mental health awareness.

"Holly was caring, charismatic and vibrant. She was a psychology student and had studied modules in mental health.

"She was surrounded by loving family and friends who would have moved heaven and earth to help her had she asked."

Photos by Mark Drinkwater

News Shopper:

"Holly’s story is a reminder that mental illness can be experienced by anybody. It’s ok not to be ok. Don’t suffer in silence. Call the Samaritans on 116 123 for support.

"Today we are pombombing across the world to remember Holly and all the joy she brought us.

"Join us and spread mental health awareness by sharing a pombomb photo and tagging @hollyspombombs #hollyspombombs on Facebook and Instagram."

Holly was a BSc in Psychology and an MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis (intellectual and development disability).

She was working as a Behaviour Analyst with children with autism and to bring ABA into the mainstream. ABA creates a positive and fun environment to teach functional living and communication skills to individuals with autism.

A family member said Holly believed every child had a right to receive an education that empowers them to achieve, regardless of their disability.

Another family member added: "Holly was an inspiration, a ray of light and an amazing friend to everyone she came into contact with. She is missed dearly every day by everyone that knew her."

If you are suffering with your mental health, the Samaritans helpline is freely available anytime of the day on 116 123.