PEOPLE overcoming mental health problems have produced a powerful poetry collection published by a local charity.

The Mind Mosaic organisation launched Inspirational Poetry at an event attended by almost 100 people.

Board member Johnny Woods came up with the idea of putting a book together featuring inspirational poetry about mental health recovery in Inverclyde.

Soon they had 60 heartfelt poems to choose from, with 42 were selected to feature in the book.

Around 130 copies of the book were sold at the launch.

Mind Mosaic director Gwyneth MacDonald said: “This collection comes from the community, many from people who have never written poetry before.

“We are immensely proud of this collection of poetry, which is both inspiring and uplifting.

“The launch night at the Beacon was a huge success.

"We were not sure if people would connect with a book, but the feedback has all been really positive.

"Many people have said they could relate to the pieces, which look at bereavement and loss, therapy, survival and recovery.

“Everyone has been so impressed with the skill, the thought and the honesty.”

The launch featured readings of some of the poems and a special guest appearance from local singer Yvonne Lyon.

Councillor Jim McEleny, who attended the launch, said: “Not being much of the arty type, I was pleasantly surprised to have had such an enjoyable evening.

“Some of the verse written and performed by mental health survivors was both inspirational and quite powerful.

“I hope those survivors continue from strength to strength and that anyone who's struggling seeks the help and support they need."

The charity would like to thank all the contributors, launch guests, Johnny Wood for editing, Mark McVey for design and typesetting, Jen Gray for editorial advice, Kathryn Gardiner for photography, all the staff at Mind Mosaic, in particular Karyn Jenkins and Elaine Wroe, and Rosalind Mudaliar, daughter of late Greenock-born poet W.S. Graham, who gave permission for the book to include 'To Alexander Graham'.

* Mind Mosaic Inspirational Poetry is priced at £10 and is available from the offices at 30 Nelson Street or The Pirate and Bluebelle in Gourock.