Cornwall Samaritans has held a celebratory coffee morning in Truro to mark the success of their Friends groups across the county.

The charity  says that  the 'Friends' groups in St Austell, Penryn, Falmouth and Truro have worked incredibly hard over many years to raise vital funds to enable this service to continue in Cornwall.

Jean Oates, secretary of Truro Friends of Samaritans received an MBE in this year’s New Year honours list for her charity work including her fundraising efforts for the branch over the past two and half decades. 

Earlier this year, the Truro Friends group had to disband due to ill health and time constraints on the members of the group.

Sylvia Powlesland, Cornwall branch director said “The tireless fundraising effort of all of the Friends Groups is essential to the running of Cornwall Samaritans at Truro. We receive no government funding so without the continuing support of all of the Friends Groups it would be increasingly difficult to continue to offer our vital service to the people of Cornwall.”

Cornwall Samaritans at Truro receives approximately 53,000 contacts per year- that’s 145 calls every day from people who are in need of emotional support.

If you would like more information, or would like to get involved in a Friend’s fundraising group please contact 01872 277277 or 01872 262505.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please visit www.samaritans.org or call 01872 277277 or 01872 262505.