A LOCAL mental health campaigner has been recognised for her good work by the Prime Minister.

Emma Picton-Jones has been given a Points of Light award for promoting mental wellbeing by providing support to farmers and people living in isolated rural areas.

Her charity, the DPJ Foundation, was set up in July 2016 following the death of her husband Daniel, who took his own life after struggling with his mental health.

She has raised more than £45,000 to provide mental health training to over 40 farming industry professionals in Pembrokeshire, helping them to identify symptoms in people and provide support.

By training vets, feed reps and others who work in the industry, the charity takes support to farmers, rather than waiting for people to seek it themselves.

Emma speaks at many agriculture and farming events to engage farming communities in this issue and earlier this year launched a counselling service called “Share the Load” to provide sustained support to those who are struggling.

Emma said: “This has come as a complete surprise.

"I am just extremely happy that mental health in agriculture is being highlighted and to be recognised for my work in this sector by the Prime Minister is a very proud moment.”

Stephen Crabb, MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire, who presented the award on behalf of Theresa May, said: “Emma has worked tirelessly to bring mental health awareness and training to Pembrokeshire’s farming community following the tragic death of her husband, Daniel.

"Her drive and determination to ensure help is given to those who need it, so they are able to ‘Share the Load’, has been inspiring and she is most deserving of this recognition.”