Man walking coast path for brother who died

Samaritans of Cornwall in Truro said it was hosting the charity's national walk this year

A man whose brother took his own life is set to take part in a national walk across the Cornish coast path to raise awareness for a mental health charity.

Richard Johnston said his brother died three years ago and used charity Samaritans in Truro for support.

Mr Johnston said Samaritans gave his brother "his own voice and space" during difficult times.

The 400km (250 miles) walk will take place on 27 September and people will walk sections of the route while working as a team to complete it in a day.

Volunteer Pat Dunne said about 5,600 people lost their lives in the UK to suicide last year.

He added: "It's more than one suicide a week just in Cornwall and those rates are fairly high.

"Our aim with Samaritans is that less people die from suicide."

Pat Dunne said about 5,600 people lost their lives to suicide across the UK in 2024

Mr Johnston, who also volunteers for the charity, said he would be thinking about his brother during the walk.

"I have been training with my dog Olive and I will be looking to get a few miles in and I will do a stretch on the day," he said.

"It has just been an amazing experience for me, and I really feel like I'm able to give something back."