SUICIDE rates for men have fallen to their lowest level in more than 30 years, but Cumbrian service provides warn the "battle has not been won."

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics this week showed the fall, although they did account for three quarters of suicides in the UK.

Around 25 people are believed to have taken their lives in Barrow, South Lakeland and Copeland last year.

Barrow Borough Councillor Michael Cassells, spokesperson for health and wellbeing, said: "It is good news and I am cautiously optimistic but one death is too many.

"My thoughts go out to the family and friends of everyone in our areas who have been affected by suicide.

"We have got quite a lot of prevention services and education workshops with local businesses because we want to make workplaces aware of when someone is vulnerable and how they can help.

"The work that has been done may be starting to help, at least to get people talking about it, but there is still a lot to be done.

"This is not a battle that has been won, but it is progress."

Mind in Furness first contact worker Kenny Tyson welcomed the increased awareness and changing social attitudes to suicide, particularly in the public eye.

He said: "Mental health is being more publicised, especially for men on TV and social media, which is encouraging.

"I believe this means that men are starting to talk openly about their feelings which could be one of the reasons male suicide levels are decreasing.

"The figures are encouraging but every death is one too many and the more we can do to get men talking can only help."

The stance was echoed by Furness and South Lakes Samaritans director Cath Bland.

She said: "It is encouraging news that suicide rates in men are falling in the UK, but any suicide is still one too many, which is why we need to carry on supporting anyone who is in crisis or despair.

"Our vision is for fewer people to die by suicide and at our branch of Samaritans we are working to support that with 17 shifts open every week where trained Samaritans volunteer their time to listen to people."

Anyone seeking support can call Samaritans for free on 116 123, while the Barrow branch is also open daily at 16 Hartington Street.