Church leaders in Shrewsbury are ‘delighted’ after receiving double the interest they expected for a new street pastor scheme in the town – with more than 60 people attending an information evening.
The street pastor initiative is a first for the town, and will see volunteers working in pairs to patrol the town centre streets at night, offering help to anyone who has become vulnerable or distressed because of too much alcohol. They will be in contact with the police via radio and CCTV.
At the packed meeting at St Julian’s Centre in Shrewsbury on Monday, more than 30 people signed up as volunteers. Church officials had previously hoped for around 16 people to come forward.
Six churches in the town are involved including Barnabas Community Church, Shrewsbury Baptist Church, St Chad’s, Trinity Churches, Riversway Elim and Hope Church, with others about to join.
Dave Matthias, part of the steering group, said: “We were delighted with the number of people there, the wide array of churches they came from, and the number of people who signed up to say they want to be involved.
He added: “If anyone missed the meeting and wants to find out more they can call 01743 364101.”
by Catherine Ferris