SAMARITANS and their supporters are working hard this July to raise vital funds to keep branches open.

The charity is inviting people to run, jog or walk 26.2 miles during the month of July in their own time and at their own pace.

Volunteer John Dodds, 73, from Northallerton, is completing not one, but two Samarathons.

Having used lockdown as a means of getting fitter, he planned to jog a single Samarathon. But on day two he suffered a slight muscle strain and decided instead to walk the distance.

He completed his first Samarathon on July 13 and given that he is only walking the double distance, plans to finish his second Samarathon by the end of the month.

Sponsorship/financial support would be gratefully appreciated to help The Northallerton and The Dales Branch of The Samaritans to continue to support the local community.

Mr Dodds can be sponsored at samarathon2020.everydayhero.com/uk/john-9