Big cash grant for Samaritans

Mayor and Mayoress of Preston, Coun John Collins and Mary Brade with volunteers of Preston Samaritans

The Preston branch of the Samaritans was awarded £20,000 by the Postcode Lottery Fund, and used the funds to refurbish the tired-looking building in St Wilfrid Street.

The charity had occupied the ancient terraced house for the last 30 years. Money was always tight so they only managed to do DIY improvements and decorating resulting in a building that is really not fit for purpose.

Upon doing a complete building survey, several issues and improvements that were required came to light.

So volunteers submitted a bit for funds and the Postcode Lottery Fund was more than happy to help. Lancashire County Council also awarded the charity £5,000 for cycle storage,

A spokesman for Samaritans said: “The grand opening is something that we owe from generous firms that provided us with various goods and services. We were overwhelmed by their generosity.

“We are also lucky to be awarded a £20,000 grant from The Postcode Lottery Fund.

“As a result of this, Preston Samaritans now have a more pleasant and comfortable working environment.

“We wish to thank Andrew Attard from Panaz, Burnley; Eclipse Kitchens and Bedrooms Ltd, Wigan, Burbidge of Coventry; Designer Contracts, Presto; The Senator Group, Accrington; Gresham Office Furniture, Horwich; Bromborough Paints Ashton; Sandhams Cheeses, Barton; Premier Paints and Ecophon, sound proofing.

“The entire project cost around £41,000 with the balance funded through fund-raising.”

Preston Samaritans is a round the clock support service providing confidential emotional support for individuals in despair or distress or individuals experiencing suicidal feelings.

For more information, visit www.samaritans.org/branches/preston-and-district-branch-samaritans

If you need to talk to someone call 116 123.