FLORAL displays throughout a railway station have been installed to draw attention to the work of a mental health charity.

Samaritans, which is dedicated to helping people who may be feeling suicidal, is brightening up the environment in Durham.

It is working with Durham County Council, London North Eastern Railway and Durham In Bloom on the scheme to reach out to people who pass through.

Large planters will display beautiful flowers and also hold cards with the telephone number for the charity.

A weekly visit by two volunteers, who will water and tend to the planters, will also give a visible presence so that anyone can speak to them.

Lynn Brooks, director of Durham Samaritans, said: “The floral displays will be seen by a number of people as they arrive at the station. The planters are an attractive and engaging way to provide Samaritan contact details- our freecall number, 116123, and our local address, 26 Sutton Street, Durham DH1 4BW, for those who want to pop in for a chat.

“Volunteers will work to keep the planters looking good and be there as a listening ear for anyone who needs advice.”

The charity takes over five million calls a year as well as responding to people in need via text and letter.

The planters will also be included in Durham’s bid for Champion of Champions this year in the RHS In Bloom competition.

The displays were funded by three Durham County Council elected members, Cllr David Freeman and Cllr Richard Ormerod, both ward members for Elvet and Gilesgate, and Cllr Liz Brown, ward member for Neville’s Cross, who supported the project with money from each of their Neighbourhood Budgets through Durham Area Action Partnership (AAP).

Craig Morgan, AAP co-ordinator at Durham County Council, said: “The displays not only make the station an attractive place for our commuters and visitors, but draw attention to the charity’s service that may be seen at just the right time, by the right person.”