WHEN Emma Derbyshire became unwell with depression, she discovered the therapeutic benefits of candle-making and took the brave step to leave her career in medicine.

Emma continues to care for people and the planet through her vegan and eco-friendly scented candles at the Wilton Street Craft Co.

Now she has raised £200 for charity Liv’s Trust. Part of the 22 Bees Project, Emma’s charity candle is emblazoned with local illustrator Myro Doodles’ Manchester Bee.

She said: “I wanted to get involved with the 22 Bees Project and I asked if she would doodle on my candles instead”.

But the story behind her Manchester emblem is especially touching because back in April, Emma was approached by Sharon Goodman, grandmother of arena victim, Olivia Campbell-Hardy.

Sharon wanted a candle made in tribute to Olivia, a scent that evoked the spirit of her granddaughter which she and relatives across the world could light in her memory.

Emma said: “I was incredibly honoured. I had not met Sharon before, so for her to put that trust in me was amazing. We shared similar beliefs about using natural ingredients, and she saw I could blend scents, so I could make something unique for Liv. It was such a pleasure to get to know the family and keep Liv’s memory alive.”

Emma’s bee candle is based on Wilton Street Craft Co’s classic Earl Grey product, which provides 60 cosy hours of burn-time. Like a chemist engrossed in her formula, Emma agonised over the scent, making certain that her solution captured the true essence of Olivia.

It was during the intricate candle-making process that Emma got involved with the 22 Bees Project .

She said: “When I was making Liv’s candle, I also wanted to do something that would have a more direct impact. I wanted give back to a smaller, local charity”.

Emma set up a Just Giving page for donations with every penny raised going to Liv’s Trust, the charity set up in Olivia’s name which supports disadvantaged young people in arts education.

She is now offering workshops to teach people how they can make their own candles with a conscience: catch her next workshop on Sunday, August 12.

Emma can be found on Instagram & Twitter @thewiltonstreetcraftco, and on Facebook.