Childline's Esther Rantzen appeals for more Derry volunteers

Childline founder Esther Rantzen has issued an appeal for more volunteers in Derry to join the charity.

The former ‘That’s Life’ star hosted a private lunch in the yesterday as part of UK tour to celebrate the charity’s 30th year, during which she appealed for more volunteers to come forward.

Speaking to the Derry News at the event, held in the Millennium Forum, Mrs Rantzen said that the charity was now seeking more volunteers in the Foyle area.

"We have 60 volunteers at Foyle, but we need 70,” she told the Derry News.

“We are always looking for new volunteers as the ones we have move on from time to time.

“Our new recruits can be as young as 16 but I feel the older volunteers are actually able to commit for longer.

“You don't need any previous experience and full training is provided.”

Esther also praised the work of the Childline Foyle branch.

“When you go in there are thank you cards and happy birthday banners,” she continued.

“I have had a really happy time in Derry meeting everyone and hearing about the work they do.”

Mrs Rantzen also hosted a gala concert at the Millennium Forum on Tuesday evening starring singers, dancers and performers from schools the Derry area and X-Factor star Conor McGinty.

She was also particularly impressed by the African dance troop from St Cecilia's College who performed at the gala concert.

"It was in a class of its own,” she added.

"Personally, I think they should perform on Strictly Come Dancing.

"Never has there been a more glorious representation of African dance by Irish dancers.”

Mrs Rantzen also met with Stormont Education Minister Peter Weir to discuss the charity’s work and ongoing relationship with his department, who are a part-funder of the charity.

The meeting was also attended by Neil Anderson, head of the NSPCC in Northern Ireland, Colin Reid, head of policy planning in NSPCC, Shauna Hawes of Childline in Derry.

The Childline number is 0800 11 11.