Torbay Street Pastors boosted by £3k from Home Office policing fund

Torbay Street Pastors say they are grateful for a £3,000 boost to their funding from a national police fund.

The small charity has spent the past 17 years looking out for vulnerable people on nights out in the Torbay area - offering reassurance, and making sure they get home safely.

The money, from a government problem solving fund, was secured for the Street Pastors by Torquay's Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Jacqui Lyttle is Chair of the pastor group, that relies on volunteers to continue its work.

She said: “For the first time ever we've had to use our reserve funds, which is why this and any support is vital for our future.

"We want to keep giving the service we provide for years to come.

"This will fund our essential supplies around keeping the van stocked with water, hot drinks, clothing for those in need and the basic life-saving items that we need on a weekly basis."

Torquay Sector Inspector Rob Harvey added: ““This funding will help sustain and strengthen their vital contribution to reducing anti-social behaviour and keeping our night-time economy safe for everyone."