The King has acknowledged the lifesaving work of a Norfolk branch of a national crisis charity.

For more than 50 years, the Great Yarmouth branch of Samaritans - on North Quay - has provided support for people in distress or despair, including feelings that can lead to thoughts of suicide. 

With only 30 listening volunteers and 10 support volunteers, the Yarmouth branch is one of the smallest in Britain.

Despite its size, the efforts of all involved can make a life-changing difference to people who feel they have nowhere else to turn.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Great Yarmouth Samaritans co-director Jude Richardson. Picture - SubmittedGreat Yarmouth Samaritans co-director Jude Richardson. Picture - Submitted (Image: Submitted)Now, the branch's efforts have been acknowledged after being nominated for The King’s Award for Voluntary Service by Filby councillor Adrian Thompson. 

The award, which was given out on the King's Birthday on November 14, recognises outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

It is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

Representatives of Great Yarmouth Samaritans will receive the award crystal and certificate from Lady Dannatt, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk early next year.

Two volunteers from the Yarmouth branch will also attend a garden party held at Buckingham Palace next summer, along with the other recipients of this year’s Award.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: King Charles III during his 75th birthday party at Highgrove Gardens in Tetbury on the eve of his birthday. Picture - Chris Jackson/PA WireKing Charles III during his 75th birthday party at Highgrove Gardens in Tetbury on the eve of his birthday. Picture - Chris Jackson/PA Wire (Image: Chris Jackson/PA Wire)Co-directors Katy Haynes and Jude Richardson said they were thrilled the branch - which has been in the town since 1968 - has been recognised. 

In a joint statement, Ms Haynes and Ms Richardson said: "This award is a tribute to all our volunteers past and present who have given up their time over the years to provide much-needed support to callers.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Great Yarmouth Samaritans co-director Katy Haynes. Picture - SubmittedGreat Yarmouth Samaritans co-director Katy Haynes. Picture - Submitted (Image: Submitted)"And we are always looking for new volunteers who, after training, will be able to provide support to others. Also, we always need support volunteers to help us with other aspects of running the branch, from administration to fundraising."

For more information, visit www.samaritans.org/branches/great-yarmouth/

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The Great Yarmouth branch of Samaritans on North Quay. Picture - GoogleThe Great Yarmouth branch of Samaritans on North Quay. Picture - Google (Image: Google)