The Lowestoft and Waveney Branch of Samaritans is approaching 60 years of serving the town and area.

With its charity shop having made the short move from its previous store further down the High Street, they have been open and trading a number of weeks.

But following refurbishment, the shop at 91, High Street in Lowestoft is set to hold a grand opening with the ribbon being cut this Friday, March 13.

Run entirely by committed volunteers who raise funds to ensure the branch remains open, only donated goods - including clothes, books and bric-a-brac - are sold with all the profits going directly towards meeting the costs of providing a free 24-hour helpline and other services.

A spokesman said: "The shop is already open and trading but will see a special guest come and perform the official ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

"Come and see what we have in store, there are many bargains and gems to be found."

The branch is also seeking new listening volunteers - with a recruitment information evening being held from 10.30am on 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 Hotel Victoria in Lowestoft on Wednesday, March 25, to raise further funds, with a raffle prize draw, a cake stall and 100 quizzers that have already booked in.

Open to teams of four and six people, the quiz features 10 rounds.

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

© Eastern Daily Press