IT’S a very sad reflection of today’s stressful and singular lifestyles and our reactions to them that a sign has been erected on a Bolton bridge offering to help those considering suicide.

The Samaritans’ green notice has been placed over St Peter’s Way near the town centre – the site of a number of incidents in recent years where people in distress have threatened to jump or otherwise harm themselves.

Samaritans is a wonderful organisation that offers a listening ear to anyone who needs it, whenever they need it.

Often, it really is just about having someone sympathetic to talk to.