THE Samaritans of Plymouth, East Cornwall and South West Devon have launched an appeal for new volunteers to combat falling numbers.

Nationwide, the charity now has its lowest number of volunteers since 1975. The Plymouth branch, serving East Cornwall and West Devon, currently operates with less than 100 volunteers, but needs another 30 to provide a 24 hour service to callers.

Mary Sargeant, director of the Plymouth branch, said: 'The Samaritans offers a unique 24 hour service for people who don't know where else to turn. Without volunteers we couldn't be here for the 34,000 people who contacted us last year.'

Mrs Sargeant said being a volunteer was hard work, but was also incredibly rewarding.

All volunteers are given full training and on-going support and anyone over the age of 18 can apply to become a listener.

As well as listening volunteers, the charity is also looking for people to help with fund-raising and increasing awareness of the organisation.

The Samaritans are holding a discovery evening on Thursday, July 11, at 7.30pm, at their centre at 20 Oxford Place, Plymouth, to enable people who are interested to find out more.

Anyone interested in volunteering or who would like further details about the Samaritans can call the Plymouth, East Cornwall and South West Devon branch on 01752 221666.