Mrs Joyce Thompson was a founder member of the Pendle, Craven, Burnley and Rossendale branch of Samaritans in 1973 and 35 years on, her commitment has been recognised with a long service award.

"We started off with two oil drums and a plank to sit on and only had enough volunteers to stay open for a limited number of hours," she said. "Most of the people we helped came to see us in person. Samaritans was their only support.

"Now, Samaritans is available 24 hours a day. We can be contacted through telephone and email as well as face-to-face contact. Most people who get in touch with us are going through a crisis in their lives. For example their relationships may be breaking down or they may have money worries. Many people have mental health problems. Some people may be in despair and are considering taking their own lives."

Mrs Thompson has also been a long-term volunteer in the hospice movement and for 14 years delivered books as part of the libary's housebound service.

Presenting the long service certificate, Samaritans' local director Mrs Pauline Hirons said: "Her selfless commitment to supporting people in crisis over so many years has been tremendous. She has lived her life in service to others and, thank goodness, there is no sign whatsoever of her flagging."