THE Chippenham Street Pastors will once again be patrolling the town and operating a safe zone during this year’s Christmas period for anyone who needs help on a night out.

Working alongside St John Ambulance, this will be the third year a safe zone has been in operation during the Christmas period in Chippenham.

The safe zone, which is operating out of the Central Methodist Church, will be in operation on December 16, 17, 23 and 31 and allow people who are in distress or in need of medical assistance to get the help they need.

Councillor Peter Hutton, portfolio holder public protection at Wiltshire Council, said: “I am delighted that for the third year running Chippenham will have a safe zone in operation during the New Year’s Eve period as well as other dates on the lead up to Christmas.

“The commitment and dedication of the Street Pastors and St John Ambulance in helping with public safety continues to highlight the importance of the voluntary sector and their important strategic role within the community.”

Chippenham’s Street Pastors are trained volunteers who patrol the town’s streets between 10pm-4am on a Saturday night, engaging with people who may need assistance including providing sick bags, space blankets and making sure vulnerable people return home safely.

Michael Weeks, coordinator for the Chippenham Street Pastors, said: “This all grew out of an idea I took to Cllr Hutton three years ago after reading the provisions put on by other towns and cities across the UK, and thinking if they can do it so can we.

“After last year’s highly successful New Year’s Eve safe zone, and seeing the need to provide more coverage, this year I am so pleased that volunteers have come forward to put on more dates over the festive season.

“I would like to thank Central Methodist Church for once again allowing us to use their premises.

I think it’s also important to highlight that while we are there primarily to provide a safe zone for anyone who becomes in need while on a night out in Chippenham’s town centre, in previous years we have had people requiring medical treatment brought to us from surrounding towns and villages.

“This has helped reduce the potential impact on local A & E departments.”