Noel Edmonds urges South West businesses to back Samaritans campaign

by Tony McConville. Published Thu 02 Feb 2012 09:56, Last updated: 2012-02-02

TV star Noel Edmonds yesterday urged businesses in the West to back a new Samaritans campaign aimed at promoting positivity in the workplace.

The Deal or No Deal host is the latest in a string of celebrities to support ‘Feel Good Friday’, the charity’s latest annual initiative.

Organisers hope to raise £3million by encouraging employers to stage “feel good challenges” and Comic Relief-style fundraisers – such as impromptu musical performances - in the office.

Thousands of businesses across the UK are expected to take part in the annual event, which takes place today (Friday February 3).

But speaking from his home near Bristol, Noel appealed for more companies in the region to donate.

Dressed in a Feel Good Friday T-shirt and clutching a £2,000 Gibson electric guitar, the telly veteran – who loves 60s rock band The Who but admits he has “absolutely no musical ability” – also urged staff to get involved.

He said: “The Samaritans is a fantastic charity that helps so many people, and I’m very pleased to be involved.

“Feel Good Friday is all about fun and positivity in the workplace, and I would urge all local businesses to do whatever they can to get involved and donate.

“Have a sing-along at work, wear slippers to the office, or just do the rounds with a collection tin – whatever you do, remember that every penny counts.”

Noel is among a growing number of people to back the campaign, which replaces the charity’s previous initiative, ‘Stress Down Day’.

The charity said it hopes to maximise awareness of the event by sending out buskers onto the streets of Bristol on the day.

They will perform ‘feel good’ songs to passers-by while displaying a sign that says: “We don't want your money - we just want you to feel good!”

The charity, which provides around-the-clock emotional support, said the money raised from Feel Good Friday will go “a long way” towards its annual operating costs.

Head of fundraising Chris Jarrett said: “We’re delighted to have Noel and the other celebrities on board, and we’re very grateful for their support.

“We’re now hoping that as many employers and employees as possible get involved in what we are sure will be a wonderful day.”

To take part and download a fundraising pack, go to: www.feelgoodfriday.org

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