SAMARITANS are reminding residents across Teignbridge they will be on duty around the clock this Christmas and New Year.

Helen Crossfield, director of the Exeter, mid and east Devon branch, which takes calls from Teignbridge residents, said: ‘Many people love Christmas and New Year with their families and friends, but it’s not the same for everyone. Some people, particularly those on their own, find this time of year particularly lonely and very difficult.

‘People of any age, whether they are alone or surrounded by people, can still feel isolated and worried. The message we want to emphasise is that it’s okay not to have a good time, even though it’s Christmas. Don’t put on a brave face, we’re here to help. People can talk to us by phone, on email or face to face.’

In a typical month the Exeter, mid and east Devon branch of the Samaritans, receives 1,800 telephone calls from people in distress. That figure increases in December and especially around Christmas time.

Helen said Samaritans volunteers are available around the clock for anyone who needs to talk, in confidence, about whatever is causing them distress, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Over Christmas someone in the UK contacts Samaritans every six seconds and over the last festive period the charity responded to almost 200,000 contacts nationwide.

The contact details for Samaritans are 116 123, which is free to call and will not appear on a telephone bill; 07725 909090 for SMS texts; and [email protected] by email.

See www.samaritans.org/exeter for details of the branch, and address to call in person.