The South West branch of a national charity is appealing for more volunteers to help maintain its 24-hour helpline.

The Plymouth, East Cornwall and South West Devon branch of the Samaritans currently operates with 95 volunteers.

But it needs at least another 20 people to provide an around-the-clock service to callers.

A recruitment day is being held next month in Plymouth to try to help ease the shortage.

Being a volunteer can be very rewarding Mary Sergeant, Samaritans

Mary Sergeant, director of the Plymouth-based branch, said: "Samaritans offer a unique 24-hour service for people experiencing feelings of emotional distress and despair.

"We are available when many other agencies are closed or using an answering machine."

Staff have dealt with 33,500 calls or face-to-face inquiries during the past year.

They have also been involved in training and supporting "listeners" at Dartmoor Prison, giving talks to schools and community groups, as well as providing internal and external training.

Ms Sergeant said: "Being a volunteer can be very rewarding.

"Samaritans believe being listened to in confidence, and without being judged, can help relieve feelings of distress and enable people to find a way through."

Volunteers are given training and on-going support.