VOLUNTEERS from the York branch of The Samaritans took part in a tour to promote the charity’s 24:7 national awareness campaign.

Local MPs, mayors, celebrities and volunteers will drive the green Smart car to over 175 Samaritans branches across England, Scotland and Wales, covering nearly 5,000 miles.

Jan Morley, branch director for York, and John Dodds, deputy training director, took the vehicle on a tour of York, before John drove to Bridlington on the next leg of the national tour.

Jan said: “He had a little trouble with the gears in York, and had to push the car in Bridlington because he couldn’t find reverse.”

The 24:7 campaign is run to raise awareness of The Samaritans’ round-the-clock availability to lend support to anyone experiencing emotional distress.