Chester MP Chris Matheson found himself out in town later than usual on a Friday night.
But he wasn’t there to enjoy himself, he was working hard alongside the unsung heroes of the city’s night-time economy – the street pastors who volunteer their time to look after drunk people, the injured and the vulnerable.
Chris said: “It was a quieter night than usual, but there was still plenty to do. Chester is both a vibrant and challenging environment after the sun goes down and it is clear that we do have some serious issues with drunkenness and anti-social behaviour.”
Chris joined local co-ordinator Mike Meynall on the night.
Mike said: “We normally go out on patrol from just after 10pm until around 3am, depending on how busy the city centre is.”
'Caring folk are out there'
The street pastors are trained volunteers from local churches who care about the community. They provide eyes and ears support for the police, publicans, specialist security personnel and the public.
Chris added: “Learning more about the street pastors and their work has given me a different insight into our city.
“People need to be free to enjoy themselves during the evening and into the night, but in some ways it is a shame that people can’t do this without going too far and finding themselves in a spot of bother.
“It’s also good to know that caring folk are out there in the cold just in case people need them.”
