Street pastors have been commended by Shropshire’s fire chief for their “immense” contribution in reducing the number of river deaths in Shrewsbury.
The Christian volunteers patrol the river at night and look out for “vulnerable” people who might try and take their own lives.
No incidents
Since the street pastors began this work in November 2011, no drowning incidents have taken place in the Shrewsbury loop of the River Severn.
29 deaths were recorded in a seven year period from 2004 until the group started the initiative in 2011.
The street pastors are now about to receive training from the local fire brigade on how to help people who are struggling in the water.
Immense contribution
Shropshire fire chief John Redmond said: “Our firefighters are pleased to help improve their water safety skills.
“The contribution from street pastors to community safety has been immense.”
Ian Horne, Street Pastor Coordinator, said: “We were set up because we wanted to help reduce the number of river deaths in the town centre by identifying vulnerable people walking on their own.”
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