Volunteer patrols to be introduced

A recruitment drive is being staged to sign up members for the Street Angels scheme, which is already operating in towns and cities across the country including Scarborough on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Scarborough’s Safer Community Partnership, which will co-ordinate the Whitby scheme, said the patrols will target town centre bars, restaurants and public transport during busy periods.

However, while volunteers will provide support they will not be required to get involved in incidents, just report them to the police. It is hoped the first patrols in Whitby will start in June and the scheme will also involve members of local church groups, North Yorkshire Police and Scarborough Borough Council. Anyone can volunteer as long as they are aged 18 or over, and comprehensive training will be given to all recruits before they take to the streets. A meeting to highlight the scheme will be held at 7.30pm on March 22 at Flowergate United Reformed Church in Whitby. More information is also available from Deacon Helen Webster at [email protected] or on 01947 602248.

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