BROMSGROVE singing superstar Michael Ball is calling on residents to volunteer for Childline after witnessing the charity’s work during a poignant trip to their Midlands base.

The 54-year-old visited the children’s charity in Edgbaston alongside fellow singer Alfie Boe, to see volunteer staff who provide support and advice to young people in need.

Childline are also in need of more volunteers as counsellors can currently only answer three out of every four calls made to the helpline.

Michael Ball said: "With the growth of social media, it’s never been more important. The need will only increase.

"I didn’t realise how important it was until we got here. So many kids use the service and that proves how important it is.

"So it’s so crucial kids know the service is there for them. The more kids know about it, the better."

Last year Childline carried out over 300,000 counselling sessions with children and young people on issues including family problems, bullying, and thoughts of suicide.

Senior Childline supervisor Theresa Wilcox said: "We are so grateful to Michael and Alfie for taking time out their schedule to see the work we do.

"The service is a lifeline for children who have nowhere else to turn. But without counsellors to answer calls and emails, we can’t help everyone who tries to contact us.

"It’s vital that anyone who can help us, does so. Answering that one call can make all the difference."