A TEAM of Christian ‘Street Pastors’ to help youngsters on their way out of pubs and clubs could soon be operating in Newport.
The Reverend Keith Osmund-Smith, the co-ordinator of the scheme across Telford, said it could help reduce trouble in Newport town centre – and keep youngsters safe.
He told members of Newport Town Council’s community safety committee on Wednesday: “We’re not here to say this is an awful place.
“We are here to look after people who are less able through youthful folly.
“We have had a number of mums and dads who say thanks for getting my child home safe or thanks for bandaging Joanne’s knee.”
Street Pastors, who are all Christians, typically man the streets between 10pm and 4am. They talk to the youngsters as well as handing flip-flops to young women struggling with high heels and giving water to the intoxicated.
Rev Osmund- Smith added: “Many incidents have been diffused just by raising an eyebrow. I’d say we’ve prevented dozens of arrests by police.”
Committee members were asked to consider whether they wanted Street Pastors in Newport and were told they could be on the streets as early as next Friday night.