A MOTHER who lost her father, brother and nephew in tragic circumstances will mark each of their memories as part of a campaign to help people in need.

Rosalind Wherly was devastated when her father committed suicide in 1973, when she was 25 years old.

Wilfred Powell had been diagnosed with manic depression, now known as bi-polar disorder, and had been battling mental health problems for 13 years.

Six years later, her brother, David Powell, an international sidecar rider, lost his life in a racing accident.

He had jumped at the chance to team up with world champion rider Jock Taylor but died during a practice session.

In 2002, Rosalind's 16-year-old nephew, also called David Powell, lost a two-year battle with leukaemia.

But Rosalind will ensure their memories live on by getting involved in the Trees of Light appeal.

The campaign, run by the Rotary Club of Derby, offers people the chance to sponsor a light on the Christmas tree in Derby's Market Place.

Rosalind, of Grange Court, Egginton, said: "My husband is involved with the Rotary Club and when he asked me if I wanted to purchase a light, it seemed right to say yes.

"That's not because I can't cope with losing some of my family, but more because I know the money will help others in need.

"My father had been a manic depressive and various circumstances resulted in his death.

"A year after my brother died, Jock Taylor, who he had been riding with, also died.

"Although they threw every drug at my nephew, he had an aggressive form of adult leukaemia and couldn't survive.

"But something good, like this appeal, can come out of their deaths and I know there are people worse off than me."

The lights can be purchased in memory of relatives or friends, or as a gift to mark a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary, for a minimum donation of £5 each.

Those bought before today will be turned on as part of Derby City Council's Big Switch-on event tonight.

Lights can also be purchased after the weekend and these will be turned on outside the Cathedral in mid-December.

A book listing the names of all those who have contributed, and to whom they have dedicated lights to, will be available at the Central Library, in the Wardwick.

All money raised by the appeal, which is being supported by the Evening Telegraph, will go to good causes.

John Cheadle, chairman of the Rotary Club's community services committee, said: "It's great to continue the appeal after the Big Switch-on because people really turn their attention to Christmas in December."

For more information about the appeal, call Mr Cheadle on 07740 958596 or e-mail john cheadle666@btinternet.com.

To sponsor a light, complete the coupon and send it with your donation to Rotary Club of Derby, PO Box 7692, Derby, DE1 0RB, or visit www.justgiving. com/derbyrotaryclub.