And as the Lowestoft and Waveney Branch of Samaritans approaches 60 years of serving the town and area, a special event has been held to mark the next chapter.

The branch's charity shop - which raises funds to ensure vital services continue to be offered locally - has unveiled a new look in Lowestoft.

The official reopening of the Lowestoft and Waveney Branch of Samaritans charity shop on Lowestoft High Street. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

After its charity shop in Lowestoft had made the short move from its previous store further down the High Street, they have been open and trading a number of weeks at 91, High Street.

And following recent refurbishment there were celebrations as an official reopening was held last Friday, March 13.

The official reopening of the Lowestoft and Waveney Branch of Samaritans charity shop on Lowestoft High Street. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The grand opening and ribbon-cutting were conducted by Lowestoft MP Jess Asato.

Ms Asato said: "It was a pleasure to officially open the new Samaritans shop on Lowestoft High Street last week.

"The Samaritans have been supporting people in our community for decades, with the Lowestoft & Waveney branch first established back in 1966.

The official reopening of the Lowestoft and Waveney Branch of Samaritans charity shop on Lowestoft High Street. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

"Their listening service and outreach work provides vital support to people when they need it most, and that work simply wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers.

"This new shop will help raise the funds needed to keep that essential service running, while also bringing new life to our historic High Street.

"A huge thank you to all the volunteers and everyone who made the opening possible - wishing the shop every success."

The branch is also seeking new listening volunteers - with a recruitment information event being held from 10.30am this Saturday, March 21 at its offices at Unit 8 on the Riverside Business Park in Lowestoft.

Email Lowestoft.Director@Samaritans.org to book your place and for further information.

The branch is also holding a fun quiz night at the Wherry Hotel in Oulton Broad, Lowestoft next Wednesday, March 25, to raise further funds, with a raffle prize draw, a cake stall and 100 quizzers that have already booked in.

Arrive from 6.15pm onwards for a 7pm start.

To book your team in, email chrissmithers6@gmail.com for further details.

© Eastern Daily Press