The Samaritans in Waterford are 70 years in existence.

The organisation has 200 branches in Ireland and the UK in total, providing vital free and confidential support to people in crisis.

Cal Ryan, Rory Fitzgerald and John Cunningham, from the Waterford Samaritans, were guests on Déise Today this morning (Thursday) talking about the ongoing recruitment drive, it's 70-year history here in Waterford, and the importance of the Samaritans generally.

Cal discussed the ongoing recruitment drive coming up to the winter solstice, December 21, as they are asking local businesses to go green that night to show their support for the charity.

Rory talked about their project 'Smashing Times' which is a performance to educate students in Secondary School about mental health and the work the Samaritans do.

John, meanwhile, spoke about what being a volunteer for 40 years has meant to him.

To listen back to the Samaritans conversation with Damien Tiernan, click on the image above...