Rail staff across Wales and Borders backed the Samaritans’ bid to turn Blue Monday into Brew Monday by helping get people together for tea and a chat, on what has been dubbed ‘the most difficult day of the year’.

Network Rail staff, along with colleagues from British Transport Police and Transport for Wales, joined Samaritans volunteers at stations including Aberystwyth, encouraging people to connect over a cuppa by offering travellers free tea bags and listening tips, as well as promoting Samaritans’ services.

Bill Kelly, route managing director for Network Rail in Wales and Borders, said: “Brew Monday is a great opportunity for the rail industry to show its support for Samaritans and the great work they do in helping vulnerable people up and down the country.

"This is a great opportunity to reach out to people who may be struggling at this time of year and encourage them to open up and have a chat over a cup of tea.”

Sarah Stone, executive director for Samaritans in Wales, said: “Days like Brew Monday can help raise awareness of loneliness as a national issue but, for too long, loneliness in young people has not been taken seriously. It’s time to put this right and listen to what they are telling us.

“In Wales, it is crucial we invest in community infrastructure and make sure communities have better access to free community groups and networks. We are immensely proud of our 10 branches and the outreach work they undertake in their local communities to support those who are lonely or socially isolated. We are also proud of our ongoing partnership work Network Rail, British Transport Police and Transport for Wales.”

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now