THE family of writer Luke Bitmead, who tragically took his own life, have spoken of their delight in seeing his final book published.

The 34-year-old writer, who was suffering from depression, was admitted to Great Western Hospital in October 2006 after apparently attempting to commit suicide.

His mother had stayed by his bedside until the early hours of the morning on October 27, when she was advised to go home to try to get a few hours of sleep.

Shortly after she left, Luke discharged himself from the hospital’s intensive care unit and took a taxi to the Brunel West car park, where he fell to his death soon afterwards.

Luke’s debut novel, White Summer, was published in 2006 shortly before he took his own life. In June, his third and final book, The Body Is A Temple, will be released by independent publisher Legend Press.

His mother, Elaine Hanson, said she is over the moon with the book, which has already gained praise from established writer Jilly Cooper.

“We can now fully celebrate his life,” she said.

“It is a hugely emotional step for me and I am just elated to have such highly- regarded people saying not only that they enjoy the book, but they also understand the deeper meaning of it.

“I feel sure Luke would feel tremendously proud to have received affirmation from a list of writers whose own work has also received outstanding success.

“On his gravestone it says ‘to live in the hearts of those we love is not to die’ and the publication of this book is validation of these words.

“He lives in our hearts and we will continue to work in his name.

“It is just so sad that it did not get published in his lifetime.”

The book, which is set in Thailand and Hong Kong and is described as a romantic thriller, is inspired by Luke’s time living and travelling in south east Asia between 1996 and 1998.

Elaine said: “He spent years working on this book.

“He had some interest with regard to it being published but there was always some reason why it wouldn’t, and he was getting really depressed.

“He then put that to one side and wrote White Summer in just a couple of months, which was more reader friendly, and that was published.

“Now this has been published I know Luke would be delighted that his work has been recognised.”

Following Luke’s death, the Luke Bitmead Bursary was set up in his memory, which is now the UK’s leading prize for struggling, unpublished authors.

The award has led to the successful publication of debut novels by Andrew Blackman, Ruth Dugdall, Sophie Duffy and J.R. Crook.

For further information about the book and the Luke Bitmead Bursary visit the website which can be found at www.lukebitmead.com.