Emmerdale star Chris Chittel, aka Eric Pollard, was in York to launch a major nationwide initiative to raise funds and awareness of The Samaritans' vital work over Christmas.

He was at a Waterstones store promoting the York Samaritan Cookbook and associated gift-wrapping service, which is on offer at the store throughout the festive season.

Volunteers from the York and District Samaritans will be at Waterstones until Christmas gift-wrapping books for customers for a small donation which will go straight to the charity.

Calls to The Samaritans are expected to increase by approximately ten per cent over the holiday period.

Depression and suicidal feelings among young men have increased at a particularly dramatic rate in recent years, with suicides reaching their highest levels after the New Year.

Janet Sharp, director of The Samaritans in York, said: "The pressure to have a good time at Christmas can be intense.

"So, feelings of isolation and despair can be even more acute. It is vital that we are here 24-hours-a-day to ensure that everyone has someone to turn to in times of emotional crisis.

"This is why this special partnership with Waterstones is so important, both for making sure that people know we are here for them and raising money for our confidential emotional support service."

Over the Yuletide period, The Samaritans will be targeting young men at risk of suicide and depression as part of its year-long Youth Matters campaign.

Across the country, there will be beermats, postcards, toilet posters and radio adverts aimed at raising awareness of The Samaritans.