Golf day raises £1,100 for charity

Ashbourne Rotary Club

FOLLOWING the recent successful Golf Day run by the Rotary Club of Ashbourne, at the Ashbourne Golf Club, a cheque for £1,100 was presented by Rob Allen, the president of the Rotary Club of Ashbourne, to Aileen Hammersley, the branch director of Derby Samaritans.

Jo Marrable, on behalf of the branch, said: “Derby Samaritans is one of the oldest Samaritans branches. We took our first call on Friday, January 27, 1961, which makes 2021 our golden jubilee year.

“Samaritans started in London in 1953, followed by the second branch in Edinburgh in 1959.

“Just two years later, Samaritans of Derby and District (to give us our full name) opened.

“Our branch director is Aileen Hammersley, and she is supported by a small leadership team, all of whom are also listening volunteers.

“We’re one of 201 Samaritans branches across the UK, and our 80-plus listening volunteers, along with all 20,000 across the country, provide support to people who are struggling to cope, are in crisis, or are feeling suicidal.

“Here at Derby we’re able to provide listening support every day and through most nights.

“Derby Samaritans is run entirely by volunteers and the more volunteers we have, the more hours we can give.

“If you’re interested in volunteering with us you can find out more about the different roles, what the listening volunteer training involves, the benefits of volunteering, and how to apply on our website www.samaritans.org/ branches/derby

“Our branch running costs, about £40,000 a year, have to be met entirely through donations. We’re really grateful to all our supporters, whether individuals, businesses or funding organisations.

“We couldn’t do what we do without this ongoing financial support”

The Rotary Club of Ashbourne is very proud to be able to support the incredible work of the Samaritans in this way.