Samaritans say it's good to squawk!

The Samaritans motto, It’s Good To Talk, became It’s Good To Squawk during Exeter’s Great West Run - all thanks to a supporter who ran dressed as a parrot.

Electrician Colin Bickerstaff raised £350 for the Exeter Mid and East Devon branch of the charity by completing the 13.1 mile course around the city centre on Sunday.

Exeter-based Colin was inspired by his wife Donna who is a volunteer with the charity, which is based in Richmond Road close to the route of the run.

“We’re really grateful to Colin, who risked getting the bird for running like that - but he’s done a great service for the charity” says Helen Crossfield, director of the Exeter Mid and East Devon branch.

“Samaritans relies entirely on voluntary donations - we receive no grants and no official funding - so we’re extremely grateful to Colin. You don’t have to be a volunteer to help fund-raise so if you have an idea please get in touch” she says.

The charity provides support to people who are distressed or in despair which may lead to thoughts of suicide. People can talk to us at any time, in their own way and in confidence, about whatever is going on in their life.