A scheme to help drunk revellers be safe on the streets of Caerphilly County Borough speak to an average of 50 people per patrol – rising to 100 on busy nights.
Street Pastors patrol Risca, Caerphilly and Blackwood and help revellers who have had too much to drink to stay out of trouble.
Help can include friendly chats, handing out flipflops to high-heel wearers, calming aggressive situations, getting people home and first aid.
Sergeant, Rob Davies, of Caerphilly Local Policing Unit, said: “The advice and support that Street Pastors can offer local people on a night out in the town centre is extremely worthwhile, particularly if they can prevent that individual from getting into trouble or becoming a victim of crime. The volunteering work the Street Pastors do is invaluable to the Caerphilly borough.
“I know that the public appreciate their interactions – they certainly are a calming influence on busy nights.”
In weekly reports of their patrols the Street Pastors highlight concerns over increasing excessive consumption of alcohol and the lack of planning by residents in order to get home safely.
Cllr David Poole, cabinet member for community services said: “We now have Street Pastors in Risca, Caerphilly and Blackwood providing much needed support. There have been many positive interactions highlighted, which is a great reflection upon the residents of the borough. We would remind everyone to enjoy themselves sensibly and safely.”
The Street Pastors provide a valuable service in our towns at night and long may they continue to do their admirable work. To be out on the streets during the winter months takes a lot of dedication and we should be grateful for their efforts.