The Cornwall Samaritans have again been supported by their town: A Continental Breakfast in the Town Hall on February 15 raised the sum of £345 for the Samaritans in Cornwall.

The Samaritans came along too and expressed their gratitude while also using their table to give information about their work and the developments that have made the Cornwall Branch stand out in the South West and nationally. About 80 people came for breakfast.

Penryn's Mayor Beverly Hulme took the Friends to be her charity for the year and she is more than happy with the events that raised over £3000 last year. Beverly said:" The Penryn Friends of Cornwall Samaritans have excelled themselves and come up to the mark every year. Although I have supported them myself for some time, I never realised how vital their fundraising is. Each Samaritan branch is self-funding. I hope to continue to support them into the future". Roger Reynolds, the treasurer for more years than he cares to admit was first in on Saturday and made it very pleasant for breakfasters to part with their money while the committee, helped by the Mayor in her 'pinny' served up coffee, tea, juices, croissants, cheese, meats and a selection of homemade bread and cakes.

The strength of the committee is the continuity given to it by people like Roger and Margaret Parrott.

Wendy Dunstan, a founder member, remembers well the activity and drive that motivated Penryn people 39 years ago to come forward and raise funds for the Cornwall Samaritans. Wendy continues as a very active member who encourages and motivates the Friends.

Their Chairman, Cait Hutchings, was delighted with the turn-out on Saturday. She said: "Although I know that Penryn has taken the Samaritans to its heart, it never fails to amaze me how willing people are to help and to come out for our events. At every fund-raising event, at least one person arrives with a generous donation and says that they would not be here only for the Samaritans. They are there every day and every night for everybody. It is a totally confidential service.

“Of course we encourage people to think about becoming Samaritans as well. I am so thankful for all the support we had on Saturday. The live music from Dan Chapman was a real treat.

"The Friends will continue to organise events to raise funds for this excellent cause. Next year will be the 40th Anniversary and we hope to include everyone in the celebrations".