FRANCINE Stock, broadcaster and Herefordshire Samaritans patron, with the mayor of Hereford, Cllr Charles Nicholls, fired up Samaritans new project to raise funds locally. On August 29, they joined members of the public and Samaritan volunteers at the grand opening of a new charity shop at 63, Whitecross Road, Hereford.

The shop was full of donated items and all the monies raised will go towards the £60,000 a year needed to keep open the Samaritans Centre in Berrington St, Hereford. Last year, the 100 volunteers there took more than 20,000 calls from people who are going through hard times or are in emotional despair. This helpline is available around the clock and offers a confidential and non-judgemental listening ear.

Joanna Emerson, Samaritans director, said “We are looking at new ways to fund our important work. I’m asking the people of Herefordshire to support us by visiting the shop, open on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, either to buy or donate items. We are also looking for volunteers both for our support work and at the shop, so if you have a few hours to spare and value contributing to making a difference to someone else’s life, phone us on 01432 269942.”

Samaritans confidential helpline is 08457 909090 or e-mail jo@samaritans.org.