REVELLERS in Pembroke are to benefit from a comforting ear, thanks to the addition of 19 new street pastors to the area.

Christians from Pembroke and Pembroke Dock have been working with Pembroke Town Council and Dyfed-Powys Police to commission the new pastors, most of whom will serve in Pembroke.

“This was the fulfilment of a dream that I have had for the past four years,” said Rob James, chairman of the Welsh Evangelical Alliance and Pastor of Westgate Chapel, who led the commissioning service.

“I am so grateful to all who have helped this dream to come true especially the new management committee, its chairman Jonathon Beharral and our coordinator Lyn Edwards who have ‘worked their socks off’ to ensure that this exciting initiative becomes an integral part of our community life.”

Street pastors work to lower urban crime by engaging with people on the streets at night, and listening to their problems.

The scheme was pioneered in London by Rev Les Isaac, Director of the Ascension Trust, who visited Pembroke recently, and has seen some remarkable results, including drops in crime in areas where teams have been working.

Sgt Terry Hughes of Dyfed-Powys Police said the pastors were doing an excellent job, and noted how members of the public often responded better to pastors than to the police.

Deputy Mayor Pauline Walters welcomed the news, saying that the council would be supporting the scheme in any way possible.

“Pembroke Fair is the optimum time to begin as there are always crowds of people out enjoying themselves,” she added.

Chairman Jonathan Beharral said the new pastors would provide “practical care and support for those out on a Saturday night”.

“This will mean listening discretely without judgment or prejudice. It will also include practical assistance to the vulnerable too.

“This unity of vision and motivation is a turning point in both local and national history as volunteers care selflessly for the well being of their community.”