Samaritans Isle of Man has launched a competition in the run-up to Christmas to help raise awareness of its vital services.

The charity is asking people to get in touch if they see the Samaritans van on the Island’s roads to be in with the chance of winning one of four Bluetooth speakers.

Samaritans Isle of Man purchased the van, nicknamed ‘Sams van’, earlier this year using funds bequeathed to the charity to assist with its work in the community. The new vehicle was unveiled in July at the Southern District Agricultural Show at Great Meadow, Castletown and has been a useful resource for the charity ever since.

Gill Porter, Director of Samaritans Isle of Man, said: ‘Volunteers use the van daily and it has become a valuable part of our awareness campaign. When people see us on the road we hope they’re reminded that we are always there to speak to if they need emotional support.

‘We will be out and about with the van across the Island throughout November and December. If you see the van on the road email or write in to us and you’ll be entered into the competition to win one of the Bluetooth speakers, which have been generously donated by Sure Isle of Man.

‘If you can include a photo too, that would be great, but it’s not a requirement. The winners will be drawn at random on Monday 18 December and the prize presented in time for Christmas. There are four speakers to give away to four lucky winners.’

To enter the competition email samaritans@manx.net or write to Samaritans IOM, 5 Victoria Place, Douglas IM2 4ET with where you saw the van and include your name and contact telephone number.

Samaritans Isle of Man offers judgement-free support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to people who are struggling with their emotions. It is part of a network of branches throughout the UK and Ireland which offer a listening ear to callers from near and far.

For more information please visit http://www.samaritans.org/branches/samaritans-isle-man.