A line-up of famous faces will test the people of North Lanarkshire’s general knowledge at a virtual quiz while raising awareness of suicide prevention.  

Arranged by local showbiz host and community Airdrie FC supporter, Ross Owen, a slew of celebrities including Ricky Gervais, Matt Lucas, Stephen Graham, Greg Hemphill, Bruce Jones, Paul Riley and Lou Diamond Phillips will put their recorded questions to the public on Sunday 14 March at 8pm in a Facebook Live event. 

Supported by Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire’s new Let’s Talk campaign, the quiz aims to encourage people to talk more openly about suicide and having suicidal thoughts. 

Latest figures show a worrying increase in suicide with 49 people taking their own lives in North Lanarkshire in 2020, a rise on the year before.  

Ricky Gervais, creator of AfterLife, a show about a man experiencing suicidal thoughts, said, “ I understand how hard it is for some people to open up about their feelings, but as difficult as it is, just talking to someone can make that burden a little bit easier. So reach out, support is available.”

Ross Owen said, “I’m a keen football supporter and I’m involved in the local community here in Airdrie and I hear about men, women and young people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts often. The last year has been particularly difficult for everyone and has impacted on people’s health and wellbeing but I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to talk about your feelings.  

“This quiz will see a few famous faces put their questions to the public in a bid to really highlight that talking does help, so tune in.” 

Actor Stephen Graham said, “I know many guys who go through phases of feeling low. It’s important to be alert to the warning signs of suicide and take action if you’re worried about someone. Asking someone directly about their feelings could help save their life.”

Councillor Paul Kelly, Depute Leader of North Lanarkshire Council said, “Suicide devastates communities and lives every day and it’s crucial for people who are feeling suicidal or down, that they know help is available. Every suicide is a tragedy and we need to do all we can to prevent them from happening - life is too important.” 

Sign up to Ross Owen’s Suicide Prevention North Lanarkshire Big Quiz on Sunday 14 March at 8pm on Facebook @rossowenshow: facebook.com/events/120290910038321/ 

The famous faces have recorded their questions and won’t be featuring live on the event. 

If you are feeling suicidal, phone the Samaritans on 116123 (free 24-hour service or visit www.samaritans.org) or Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 (free to call between 6pm and 2am or visit www.breathingspace.scot) for self-help and management.