CHARITY workers took part in a 5,000-mile national motor marathon to raise awareness of its 24/7 service.

Volunteers at the Orpington and Bromley Samaritans branch in Station Road, Orpington, drove from the borough to Lewisham as part of a two-week Smart Car tour of the country.

The tour, which took in 175 Samaritans branches, was to promote the charity’s 24-hour support service for anyone experiencing emotional distress.

Branch director Ted Venables said: “This motor marathon was the perfect way to raise awareness of Samaritans' round-the-clock availability.

“The charity is the only service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

To find out about volunteering email samaritansvolunteers@hotmail.co.uk or call 07825 177920.