Volunteers operating as street pastors to help protect night-time revellers are expected to be launched next month in good time for the Christmas/New Year party season.

The independent charity scheme has the full backing of West Mercia Police who see the pastors as a valuable addition towards helping maintain law and order and safeguarding people in drink.

Sergeant Claire Greenaway, who heads the town centre policing team, has been involved in training the new pastors and received excellent feedback.

“They are really enthusiastic and looking forward to starting patrols for real. This initiative will improve safety of people within the town, especially late at night,” said Sergeant Greenaway.

She said she was delighted with the support given by West Mercia Police Authority who recently approved her application for a £1,000 grant to buy two radios and two mobile phones for the pastors.

Training will continue over the coming weeks including going out on motor patrol with police officers at busy times to see at first-hand what is happening on the streets.

The volunteers will also visit the CCTV room for further viewing of people’s behaviour after leaving pubs and clubs.