Town Pastors Scheme serving Harrogate and it's surrounding area.

At the end of the first 6 months of the Town Pastors, Harrogate, project we can report that it has been a great success.  There are some 40 pastors, with more being introduced to the team every month.  On any one Friday night there are 12 – 16 pastors out on the streets in small groups in their bright orange jackets, looking out for the vulnerable and aiming to keep Harrogate a safe place to be at night.

The police are pleased with the project, and a similar scheme is being considered in Ripon.  Many of the Harrogate churches have been a great support, providing funds and manpower.   This is an open community project – people who are not attached to any church are very welcome to join the team.

A catering vehicle is expected to arrive (thanks to the Salvation Army) in July, when water, tea, coffee and cake will be available to anyone who wants them.  This is also expected to be a calming influence in the town.

As soon as there are enough volunteers, the pastors aim to be out on Saturdays as well, in response to many requests from the young people who feel safer when the orange jackets are around. 

Not only that, but the Pastors plan to be at Birstwith Show and Ripley Show this year providing fun activities for families, - including the nightclubbers of the future!  Look out for their stall offering nail-decorating, face-painting, hand massages, games, balloon modelling and a whole lot more.  Or why not join the teams manning the stands if you have appropriate skills, or are willing to spend some time training? Contact Jeremy Clough on 0777 1722 241.