News & Events

Happy Birthday, Basingstoke Street Pastors!

Jul 4, 2018 | Press releases

This July, Basingstoke’s Street Pastors celebrate 10 years of operation, serving the night time economy of the town.

This milestone will be marked by a special service of celebration to be held at the URC London Street this Friday, 6th July at 7.30pm.  Dignitaries attending will include: The Deputy Mayor; local MP Maria Miller; the founder of Street Pastors UK, the Rev Les Isaac OBE; Police Commander Chief Inspector Matt Reeves and The Bishop of Basingstoke Rev Canon David Williams. If you are in the area, we would love you to join us for this special celebration.

This is a massive achievement and a reflection of the fantasic work done by a dedicated group of volunteers from churches across Basingstoke.  The work of Street Pastors is unseen by much of the population of the town, but helps to keep revellers safe, protects the vulnerable and helps diffuse potentailly agressive situations. They have a record of service of which they can be justly proud” said Phil Thomas, Chair of the Management Group.

In the ten years since the town’s Street Pastors started work, over 1,500 situations have been calmed and 2,250 vulnerable people supported.  Over 8,000 pairs of flip flops have been distributed to female revellers to protect their bare feet, and 14,000 bottles and broken glasses have been recovered.  A further 2,000 people have benefitted from the Safe Hub, established to provide a place of safety to anyone vulnerable, hurting or sick from over-indulgence, or to listen and chat over a hot drink.

Street Pastors provide a reassuring and friendly presence in the town and play a significant part in reducing anti-social behaviour and crime associated with the night-time economy.  This was recognised in the recent renewal of the ‘Purple Flag’ award to Basingstoke.  They have made a positive difference to the lives of literally thousands of people who visit Basingstoke Town Centre.