Samaritans’ motorcyclist revs up in Rochdale

As part of Samaritans’ annual awareness day 24:7, David Exley was welcomed by Simon Danczuk, MP for Rochdale and a volunteer

As part of Samaritans’ annual awareness day 24:7, volunteers welcomed the arrival of David Exley - a Samaritans volunteer motorcycling around the UK and Ireland to raise awareness of the charity - to Rochdale last week.

Covering more than 6,000 miles on his motorbike, 64-year-old David will visit each of the country’s 201 Samaritans branches to highlight the charity’s vital 24-hour service; also riding in memory of his brother and son.

David said: “My younger brother Tim took his own life 24 years ago and tragically in 2007 my son James also ended his life.

“I really hope that my challenge will mean that more people will be aware of the support Samaritans offers, that way, some good can come out of what has been a very difficult time for me and my family.”

David  started his seven-week journey at Worthing Samaritans branch on 2 July, and arrived here in Rochdale at 10.45am on 11 August to the welcoming cheers of fellow volunteers, family, friends and MP Simon Danczuk.

Branch Director of Rochdale Samaritans Ian Hartley said: “Our awareness day, 24:7, is the ideal way to raise awareness of Samaritans and David’s challenge will really help to highlight this, not only in Rochdale, Oldham and District but across the UK and Ireland.

“Samaritans is the only helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, offering support to anyone struggling to cope.”

To donate to David’s quest to raise £10,000 for Samaritans visit:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/davidswayround