Volunteers have been recognised for all of their hard work at Colchester Samaritans.

The six people were chosen because they had each given more than 24 years to the group.

They were given certificates in memory of Claire Squires, who collapsed and died while running the 2012 London Marathon.

Claire had chosen to fundraise for Samaritans because of her mum Cilla’s commitment to the charity.

The long-service award in her name honours dedicated Samaritans like Claire’s mother, herself a volunteer for 24 years at the time of her daughter’s death.

Virginia Druitt, director of Colchester Samaritans, said: “Our volunteers are the cornerstone of Samaritans’ services to the community.

"This award is presented annually and we are thrilled this year to recognise several Colchester branch volunteers.”