Bradford's Samaritans have called for more volunteers following an alarming fall in new recruits.

The charity, which has helped save thousands of lives, has seen the number of counsellors across the country fall to a 15-year low of 19,600 and a loss of more than 1,000 telephone helpers a year since 1994.

And with Bradford's office alone receiving about 30,000 calls a year plus callers at the door and opening 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the service is stretched.

Spokesman for the Bradford branch, Alan Griffin, said: "People move around with jobs and that reflects on all charities and on us because we're so busy in Bradford.

"We do need volunteers all the time to keep up the quality of service on offer. We are looking for more young people and to that end we have some information days on January 10 and 12.

"Anyone can call us for more information. We have a varied selection of people from every profession, walk of life and age range."

Volunteers undergo a rigorous period of training and shadowing before working a minimum three-hour shift per week and one overnight shift each month.

And as everybody gears up to celebrate the festive season and the new millennium, the number of crisis calls is expected to reach a peak.

"It always does," said Mr Griffin. "Most people are saying what are we doing about staff for Christmas and the Millennium. We're not doing anything different. We're just going to be there as normal for anyone in crisis or distress."

The Samaritans have now been awarded £117,000 to help fund a national recruitment drive.

For more information on working for the Bradford branch, call (01274) 547547 or call its national recruitment line on 0990 627282. The charity's national helpline is 0345 909090 or visit their website at www.samaritans.org.uk.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.