The Prince took the opportunity to learn about what it takes to be a volunteer, was given a tour of the branch meeting some of our most longstanding volunteers and later unveiled a portrait of Samaritan’s founder Chad Varah.

He also met Felicity Varah Harding, daughter of our founder Chad Varah, and volunteers on the telephones.

Prince Charles said: “I am deeply appreciative and full of admiration of everything these remarkable volunteers do; that you give up so much of your time and provide your love and compassion in this way.”

Felicity Varah Harding, the daughter of the charity’s founder, said during the visit that 60 years ago her father was “inspired to link technology with compassion”. She added: “Today we are using new technology to reach out to even more people – a call every six seconds.”

Samaritans, was the world’s first 24 hour helpline and has grown from Dr Varah and his telephone to 20,665 volunteers in 201 branches across the UK.

We’ve come a long way. Let the 60^th year anniversary celebrations begin!