With Samaritans being Charity of the Year for the TCS London Marathon 2024, Hull Samaritans set their own challenges to coincide with the internationally recognised event.
Supporters Michael Starkey and Callum Norsworthy rowed a 24 hour non-stop relay on the Market Cross in Beverley, from 1.00pm Saturday 20th April to 1.00pm Sunday 21st April.
Over the 24 hours they rowed 291 kilometres which is the equivalent of 6.9 marathons.
The event aimed to raise awareness of what Samaritans do and funds for the branch. The total raised from donations was £1,245.80.
Branch Director Duncan said “I am totally amazed at the amount of money raised during the rowing event. Thank you so much for the generosity of all those who contributed. The money will be used to help cover the running costs of the Hull branch and allow us to keep the phone lines open”
“And of course a particular thanks to Michael and Callum for their resilience and energy, rowing for such a long time through the night!”
Meanwhile, in Hull Samaritans had a continuous 26-hour telephone shift at their premises on Spring Bank, Hull. Starting at 1.00pm on Saturday 20th April volunteers took turns to continuously cover the phones until 3.00pm on Sunday 21st April. The branch has never run as long a continuous shift before.
To recognise the Samaritans involvement with the Marathon, Hull City Council flood lit major buildings in the city in Samaritans green over the weekend (including City Hall and the Minster)
The Hull branch is run and funded entirely by volunteers.
Samaritans is there for anyone struggling in their lives or experiencing feelings of distress or despair. They provide confidential emotional support via a freephone number (116 123), email (jo@samaritans.org), and face-to-face discussions.
Samaritans are trained to listen to callers and help them talk through their worries, troubles, and concerns. Samaritans are non-judgemental and aim to help callers make sense of what they are going through.
