THE Samaritans' Bexley and Dartford branch plans to shed its middle-aged image by launching a witty poster campaign in pub toilets.

The campaign, "Is life crap at the moment? Do you need someone talk to? Ring The Samaritans", is aimed at the thousands of young adults who frequent pubs throughout the area.

Small cards bearing the same message will be left for drinkers to take home.

The Samaritans (Bexley and Dartford), in Glynde Road, Bexleyheath, hopes the £1,000 campaign will also attract young recruits as out of 75 members only 20 are aged 30 or under.

Branch director Carol 415 (Samaritans do not use surnames) said: "The posters will be punchy and should attract the attention of youngsters going through relationship difficulties, exam stress, abuse, drink problems or drug addiction."

According to The Samaritans, a suicide is committed every 85 minutes in the UK. Suicide accounts for 19 per cent of all deaths of young people, while suicide attempts by young men have doubled since 1985. You can call The Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 08457 909090 or e-mail jo@samaritans.org