The Samaritans in Stafford are to go into local secondary schools and colleges in the area to make young people aware of the services they offer.

They say that youngsters face increasing problems when they get into their teenage years and beyond.

The service in Stafford has been running for 40 years, and with the Samaritans originally being formed after the suicide of a 14-year-old girl, they have again decided to increase awareness among young people of the service they offer.

Spokesman for the Samaritans, Alan Alecock, said they are targeting secondary schools and colleges in Stafford because students of that age are reaching some of the most difficult times - including exams and peer pressure.

He said the organisation is not saying all young people need counselling, but all people need someone to talk to at some stage in their life.

The Samaritans are also holding special events at Staffordshire University's main campus and the Zanzibar nightclub in the town centre.