Alan Woodhouse, the longest-serving volunteer for the Samaritans, has died at the age of 83. Mr Woodhouse helped establish the charity's Liverpool branch in 1960 and dedicated 57 years to supporting vulnerable people.
He was appointed MBE in the New Year Honours for his voluntary work. Speaking at the time, he said volunteering 'will enrich your life' and that his honour recognised the efforts of all Samaritans staff over the decades.
Mr Woodhouse trained hundreds of new recruits and raised vital funds. He described how every shift gave him 'a sense of purpose' knowing he was doing something meaningful.
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His death marks the end of an era for the Samaritans, who have lost their most devoted volunteer.
