THE first volunteer Poole Town Pastors should begin patrolling the streets by the end of October.

A launch evening for the Churches in Poole initiative, which is supported by charity Faithworks Wessex in partnership with the Bournemouth Town Pastors, has already taken place.

Staff officer Jon Wasey, from the office of the police crime commissioner, read out a greeting from Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill.

Mr Underhill had said: "I welcome any town pastor initiative at a time when all agencies are under pressure and keeping people safe is so important.

"The beauty of these schemes is that its success is measured by a reduction in calls to police or crimes reported.

"I have witnessed firsthand pastors diffusing potential violent encounters and/or removing vulnerable people from dangerous environments before they become a victim.

"Town pastors are the very best of the best of our community – I applaud you."

Every pastor is a volunteer, and is trained in 12 modules on issues such as first aid, drugs and alcohol, mental health and safeguarding.

They'll start going out, initially on Saturdays, mid-afternoon until early evening, by the end of October. It is hoped these times will be extended as the volunteers pastor team grows.

Borough of Poole safer communities manager Ian Cooke also spoke during the launch event at Life Church, Poole.

He said the pastors would offer additional support to outreach work helping vulnerable young people and adults in the town.

A project spokesman said: "Poole Town Pastors are there to show the love for Jesus on the streets in a practical and caring way - and will share about faith if asked - across the generations, whether by helping with immediate needs or just to be a listening ear."