Two new Street Pastors have started patrolling Nantwich town centre to work alongside police keeping revellers safe.
The pastors were welcomed by Nantwich Mayor Cllr Christine Farrall at a St Mary’s Church ceremony.
The Street Pastor initiative was launched in 2012 when 18 volunteers from the churches in Nantwich and Acton were appointed.
They work on wet and cold nights until the early hours of the morning to offer help to people who need it after having too much to drink or are in a distressed state.
The pastors wear distinct high-vis clothing and work alongside Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Unit officers until the pubs, clubs and takeaways close.
The scheme has been well received by visitors and residents.
Nantwich Police Sgt Richard Tomlinson said: “The Pastors do a fantastic job on the busy evenings, and are a great support often taking work away from us, allowing the police to concentrate on crime and disorder in the town.”
Cllr Farrall said: “Our town has many voluntary organisations.
“We have cultural, historical, arts and floral groups who attract tourists and shoppers to Nantwich, but there are other groups who don’t enjoy the same recognition.
“These are the bodies who give their time and effort to help the vulnerable.
“The Prayer and Street Pastors administer care and assistance during the late hours in the town centre to the mainly young people who lose their grip on reality through, drink, drugs or depression.
“These volunteers are our role models, without judging anyone and show what a great community spirit we have 24 hrs a day.”
Police are adding extra bodies to town centre patrols as festive revellers and shoppers pack in to the town over the next week.
They will also be using “dispersal powers” to exclude youths from the town for up to 48 hours in cases of anti-social behaviour.
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