A young Harlesden artist is showcasing her work at Brent Samaritans to mark the national organisation’s 60th anniversary.

Tamsin Thackery, 17, who received 100 per cent in her graphic communication GCSE, took photos of addictive substances, changing their labels to create powerful images.

The artwork has now been adapted for the front window of the Samaritans’ base in Leopold Road.

Tamsin said: “I feel very excited and honoured. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to do something for a charity that makes such a difference.”

She said her idea was “to catch depression before it starts” adding: “I wanted to use images of things which people use to handle stress and convey that drinking alcohol and smoking aren’t the only options for dealing with stress. There are people you can talk to.”

She printed the phrase “try talking” on beer bottles and cigarette packets and put words such as “stress”, “depression” and “work” on beer spills and cigarette stubs.

These were then arranged as posters using photoshop technology to look like they were on billboards at Euston station.

Now studying for her A-levels at Thames Christian College in Clapham, Tamsin said she was inspired by advertising campaigns.

A spokesperson for Brent Samaritans, founded by the late Rev Dr Chad Varah in 1953, said: “I’m thrilled that such a talented young artist has chosen Brent Samaritans to showcase her work. Hopefully passers-by will be drawn to our fantastic new window display and we will raise local awareness.”

If you would like to learn more about becoming a volunteer with Brent Samaritans, the next information evening is on Wednesday next week at 7.15pm at the branch.

+ To book a place, visit www.brentsams.org. Information evenings are held monthly.