A MUM-of-three who turned to music to deal with a chain of heart-breaking tragedies including the death of her beloved sister has released a touching video in the hope of helping others to survive the hard times.

Kelly Forber, who grew up in Orford, started singing at the age of 11 competing in a number of competitions.

But her love of singing has gone on to give her strength during the darkest periods of her life.

The 37-year-old said: "Rachel was not only my sister but my best friend and I can't put into words how much I miss her.

"It has been hard and I will never get over what happened to her but singing does help take my mind elsewhere."

Kelly's sister Rachel died in 2001 – just three days after her 21st birthday at her mum's home in Orford.

Rachel had a promising career in the army when she first began displaying symptoms of CJD – a rare and fatal condition that affects the brain.

Warrington Guardian:

Pictured: Kelly Forber with sister Rachel

Recently Kelly also lost her best friend Melanie Garry after she suffered multiple organ failure at the age of 37.

"There were three of us who were really close so it has been tough. We were friends all through childhood, school and then in adulthood," said Kelly.

"It is the anniversary of my nan's death too so it feels as if it has been one thing after another.

"My dad had a heart attack in front of me a couple of years ago and a few years ago someone left my brother for dead."

After turning to singing, many of Kelly's friends have urged her to make a recording in the hope of providing a moment of escapism for others.

Kelly recorded a song called Dancing in the Sky by Dani and Lizzy and posted the recording on Facebook which has since been shared hundreds of times online and viewed by many more.

She said: “I didn't expect so many people to see it.

"I'm just in my pyjamas and I hadn't even brushed my teeth.

"I had been crying all week but I hope the video shows to others than you can get through the dark times."