More than 100 people have committed suicide in the Hounslow region in the past three years, prompting a new campaign aimed at identifying those most likely to be at risk.

The figures, which are contained in a report to the November meeting of Ealing, Hammersmith and Hounslow Health Authority, reveal that between April 1998 and March 2001, coroners recorded suicide verdicts on 119 deaths and a further 73 open verdicts.

They also reveal that the age groups most prone to taking their own life are men and women aged between 35 and 44 (who accounted for 30 per cent of the total), and those between 25 and 34 (25 per cent).

With Christmas fast approaching, health officials have identified four priorities for improving the range and quality of services available for people who may already be clinically depressed and feeling the stress of the period.

These include the development of assertive outreach teams, 24-hour access to specialist mental health services, strengthened community mental health teams and 24-hour staffed accommodation in the community for those who need that level of care.

Dr Michael Soljack, director of public health, said: "Suicide and depression often go hand in hand so we need to be looking at ways to ensure people suffering from depression are offered help early.

"If people feel it is getting too much, they can talk to a friend, their GP or a service like the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90."