Volunteers launch cycle patrol in Dover villages

Street Pastors help vulnerable people on nights out with water, food, or advice on getting home

Dover Street Pastors are starting a summer cycle scheme visiting villages on the outskirts of the town to offer support and advice.

The charity usually carries out evening and weekend patrols of the town centre on foot.

Volunteers helps vulnerable people on nights out with water, food, or advice on getting home.

"Being on bikes means we can go further afield and engage with people before they get into trouble," explained chairwoman Wendy Green.

The Street Pastors work with the local police force and council, aiming to provide an alternative method of support.

"Sometimes it's just to engage and to chat, sometimes people are in trouble," added Ms Green

"We're not there to police any situations," said senior pastor Alan Boxall. "We are there just to be caring and sharing."

The Street Pastors will carry out monthly cycles in villages including Aycliffe, River, and Whitfield.

The Street Pastors want to engage with people while they're relaxing during the summer

The team hopes to connect with people through conversation, letting them know they have somewhere to turn.

"We thought we would get ourselves more involved with local families," Mr Boxall added.

"If people need our help, we're also there to help."

The Dover Street Pastors have been operating in the town since 2011.

The cycle scheme, which the pastors believe is the first in Kent, will last until the end of September.