Friday, October 17 saw the latest meeting of the club. This was an open meeting with a talk and two short films by the Samaritans.

Two members of the Truro Branch of the Samaritans gave a very interesting talk about their work. Volunteers man the telephone 24-hours per day, ready to talk to anyone who needs them. They do not give advice, but they are ready to listen to any problems that callers may have. Callers do not need to be suicidal, a widely held impression. Samaritans believe in the caller’s right to choose, and will even stay on the phone with them while the caller takes his/her life; a very difficult thing to do.

However, the aim of the Samaritans is to lower the number of persons committing suicide. The listening volunteer then offloads to a leader at the end of the shift, before going home. All calls are confidential, and are never discussed outside the organisation.

The Samaritans receive no government funding and all funds are raised by the volunteers and groups of friends, and a stall at St Austell market. A retiring collection of £70 was given to the Samaritans.

The speakers were introduced and thanked by Ruth Pascoe, the notices were read by Phyllis Whiting and the refreshments were served by Jean Rashleigh and Susan Weeks. The menu for the Christmas meal to take place on Friday, December 5 was circulated for members to choose from the courses offered.

The next meeting will take place at 2.30pm on Friday, October 31, when a talk entitled ‘A Scilly Adventure’ will be given by William Thomas.

All meetings will be held at 2.30pm until the end of February. Members old and new are very welcome. Further information regarding the club can be obtained from Dorothy Pountain on 01326 561776 or Phyllis Whiting on 01326 563237.