Sutton Street Pastors

They have been out in force in nearby Hucknall for the last two years – taking to the streets every Friday night, whatever the weather.

Pastors support the work of the police, council officers, ambulance crews and pub workers and help to make the town safer by helping reduce violent crime and antisocial behaviour.

In the first two years of operation they have spent 1372 volunteer hours on patrol.

During the hours they have worked the following has been achieved:

l 642 glass items were picked up and disposed of, preventing people being accidently injured by them as well as meaning they cannot be used as weapons

l 202 flip-flops were handed out

l 119 bottles of water were given to revellers, helping rehydrate them and slow down their alcohol intake

l Countless lollipops were given to groups of revellers – which is a good way of starting conversations and building relationships.

Hucknall Street Pastor Graham Conway said: “We have had some amazing conversations with people.

“We continue to engage with those who are out on Friday nights – groups of young people, regular drinkers, bar and door staff.

“There have also been a few opportunities to administer basic first aid where required.

“We are building some brilliant relationships and have many opportunities to help, listen and serve.”

The pastors benefited from funding from Ashfield Community Safety Partnership when the group was first set up and the partnership has arranged a meeting for May with a view to setting up a Street Pastor scheme in Sutton.

Street Pastors is an interdenominational network of Christian charities operating across the UK and world wide..

The fist scheme started in Brixton in 2003.