Street pastors take to the streets of Shrewsbury
Street pastors will be on duty in Shrewsbury for the first time this weekend. They will patrol the town centre promoting personal safety, helping people find their way home without mishap following a night out.
About 20 volunteers have been recruited through an ecumenical church group and more will be trained during the coming months.
The scheme has been jointly funded by the Severn Loop Local Joint Committee, West Mercia Police and voluntary donations. Its launch follows the success of similar schemes in several others parts of the county.
Licensing Officer for the police in Shropshire, Mr Tony Mantle urged pub and club customers in Shrewsbury to welcome the initiative.
"Although the street pastors are from various church groups in the town, they are not there to preach or push people down a religious path.
"The police see them as an integral part of improving the night time economy experience in town. By becoming involved with people who make themselves vulnerable, street pastors will provide a level of care that does not require medical or police involvement."
Mr David Mathias, spokesperson for the scheme, added: "The initiative has been a real revelation for those of us involved. We were surprised by the level of commitment from the newly-trained people who will be giving their time to help ensure night time revellers in Shrewsbury have a safe and enjoyable evening."
