Gloucestershire hi-tech engineering group Renishaw has vital provided support to Gloucester and District Samaritans.

Its charities committee has provided a grant to fund the introduction of new telephones at the branch in Park End Road, Gloucester.

Garth Barnes, former director of Gloucester Samaritans, said: "The phones we have been able to purchase with this grant will make a huge difference both to our volunteers and the people who call us.

"New technology allows us to be inclusive; volunteers with impaired hearing now find the lines much clearer which is good for them and for people who need someone to talk to.

"Gloucester Samaritans, whilst part of the national charity, relies on local donations to keep the branch open.

"It's great that Renishaw is so committed to its local community and it seems very appropriate that as a technology company, they were able to help us in this way."

Kevin Vodden, chair of the Renishaw charities committee, said: "Samaritans relies on technology to be there for people who need someone to talk to and we're glad to be able to help a local branch."

Picture: Garth Barnes and Kevin Vodden