Tony raises much needed funds for Samaritans as they reach over 13,000 calls.

2020 has been an especially difficult year for many people and Samaritans volunteers in Havering have been busy dealing with more than 13,000 calls and around 1,000 emails over the last 12 months. That’s an amazing commitment for the 86 volunteers who give up their time to support those who need their help. All branches are financed independently and this costs about £35 a day at Havering Samaritans, who now need money urgently after being unable to fundraise for six months. This is where Havering resident Tony Brindley, 57 years old, has stepped up. 

Tony works at Romford Railway Station, and in a partnership between Havering Samaritans and Tony’semployer (MTR Elizabeth Line) he aims to achieve 1,000,000 steps during the 30 days of September. That’s about 500 miles needing an average of 16 miles per day. Some of the steps will be at work but the majority are in Dagnam Park and elsewhere around Havering. He must complete a minimum 33,333 steps a day, but you can’t hold back his enthusiasm and he has, on occasion managed 38,741 steps using up 3,565 calories.

Director of Havering Samaritans, Arthur Leathley, along with other Samaritans joined Tony in the park on Sunday 13th September.

“Tony and his rail colleagues have been great supporters of Havering Samaritans, and this is a fantastic campaign at a crucial time as we desperately need funds to help others. During the uncertainties we are all facing, people need the help of Samaritans more than ever. As Tony walks his incredible one million steps, Samaritans will continue to help millions of people on their own challenging life journeys.”

Tony said:

“I meet many people on my walks and at work so always carry the Samaritans Contact card in case I’m asked for one. The aim is to raise awareness of the service Samaritans provide and raise money so they can continue to provide it”.  

Alison Bell, HR Director for MTR Elizabeth line, added:

“Everyone at MTR Elizabeth line is incredibly proud of Tony’s dedication and commitment to undertaking this challenge in support of Samaritans. We’re delighted his efforts will also contribute to the rail industry’s Million Hour Challenge.”

Tony’s millionth step will be at 4pm on 30th Sept as he enters the car park at Havering Samaritans, 107 North Street, Romford. COVID restrictions means we can’t all be there to greet him, but you can follow his progress on Twitter (@RM12sams) HashTag #Tonys_Steps and support Tony via:

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RichardBaker92