A HEARTBROKEN family has spoken out after the death of 33-year-old Amanda Gilbart, whose battle with depression came to a tragic end last week.

Amanda’s body was found by workmen at Sutton Mill Brook, off Clock Face Road - less than a quarter of a mile from her home - on the morning of December 8.

Family members say the mother-of-one and former Sutton High School pupil had been fighting depression for years, and that her “huge smile” and “caring nature” masked her own problems.

Amanda’s mother Gillian, of Bentinck Street, Sutton, said: “Amanda’s death has left a huge hole in all of our lives and hearts.

“From being born in November 1981, Amanda quickly became the apple of our eyes. You could not help but notice her big blue eyes and, later, as a toddler, her massive disarming smile and blonde hair. In short she was beautiful.

“Later on Amanda took on the role of big sister when her younger sister Kate was introduced to the world, a role which she relished. She had no problems getting Kate into lots of mischief, and together they were a formidable pair. Later, as teenagers and adults they were more than sisters - they were best mates.”

After leaving school, Amanda, had a number of jobs before settling into a role as a carer.

Gillian said: “She had a very caring nature and was always helping other people with their problems and ignoring her own, which were many. Unfortunately throughout her teenage years and adult life she had many downs.

“She was bullied and was in a very abusive relationship for years. She became conditioned to see herself as useless and worthless, and to thinking that nobody else cared about her.”

Amanda was briefly married and had a son Alex, now 11.

Amanda’s father John, known as ‘J’, said: “Even after the marriage ended, they both worked hard to give Alex a stable up-bringing, and Alex is turning into a very clever and respectable young man of whom she will always be proud.”

He added: “We are devastated, but so touched by the many messages of sympathy for Amanda on social media.”

Sister Kate said: “Even with all the love of her family and friends, a new man, and a new outlook, Amanda still had troubles hidden beneath the surface.

“People knew her as happy and smiley but the truth is, she was massively depressed. She was far from useless or worthless - she was gift.”

Amanda’s funeral will take place at 2pm on December 23 at St Helens Crematorium, with a reception afterwards at Ruskin Drive social club.