Local Mayors, MPs, and Councillors join Samaritans at Turf Moor to celebrate 50 years of listening in Pendle, Burnley, Craven & Rossendale
Volunteers in our community have been answering the phone to those in need of a listening ear, day and night, since 1972.
Over 100 active and retired listeners came together to mark this milestone on Sunday 3rd July.
The celebration was held at Burnley Football Club, Turf Moor, where local advocates, ambassadors, politicians, and civic dignitaries attended to show their gratitude for the work the Samaritans do.
Antony Higginbotham, MP for Burnley, who attended, said, “I really want to say thank you to the Samaritans. It has been so humbling to hear about all the work they do. When you need them, the Samaritans are always there. It is truly life-saving work.”
A buffet lunch was served, and photographs and press clippings from the last 50 years were on display. After a long period of isolation for many, the gathering was a welcome opportunity to reminisce, share experiences, and look to the future.
Councillor Cosima Towneley, Mayor of Burnley, said, "Walking into the room today I was immediately struck by how it felt just a like a family. All the volunteers are so unassuming. They are under the radar, yet we know they are always there when anyone is in crisis."
Councillor Cosima Towneley, Mayor of Burnley enjoying Pendle branch's 50th event
As well as music chosen by volunteers to represent their favourites from the decades, Branch Director, Dale Hannah, shared his vision for the future. He said,
It’s a privilege to lead such an amazing group of volunteers, who do so much to help others. This event has brought us together after a tough couple of years, and we are ready to build on the last 50 years work, and look to a positive future for our branch.
Pendle branch Director, Dale
Longest serving members were awarded special thanks, including Rachael King, who has been a listener in Pendle for 37 years. A founding member of the branch, Jack Binns was also present, alongside Arthur Bickerstaffe, who was also a volunteer in the 1970s.
The volunteers spent time mingling with old colleagues as well as meeting new ones including current trainees. They also talked with local politicians such as Antony Higginbotham, MP for Burnley, Cllr. Cosima Townley, Mayor of Burnley, Cllr. Afrasiab Anwar, Leader of Burnley Council, and Cllr. Brian Newman, Deputy Mayor for Pendle.
Long-serving branch member, Rachael thanked for 37 years of being a listener
From L to R: Dale, Cllr. Afrasiab Anwar, MP Antony Higginbotham, Judith, Cllr. Cosima Townley, Cllr. Brian Newman, Deputy Mayoress Lynne Newman & Deputy Mayoress Pailin Petchrlum
His Worship the Mayor of Pendle, Cllr. Yasser Iqbal, advises, “I was privileged to speak to Pendle Samaritans volunteers at Colne Gala recently. For 50 years and counting they have reached out to those in need and are a vital part of our local community. The Samaritans of Pendle, Burnley, Craven & Rossendale make a huge positive impact on individual and public well-being. I would like to take this opportunity to warmly thank all volunteers and local supporters as we mark the 50th anniversary of Pendle Samaritans branch.”
It's clear from mental health data that Samaritans are needed in our community now more than ever. If you're interested in volunteering please apply at: volunteer.samaritans.org/volunteer
Or to fundraise or donate to your branch, please click here.