Grant boost for Billingshurst Street Pastors

Patrick Perks BEM, Treasurer of Billingshurst Street Pastors, joined the Police & Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, and representatives from other local organisations who had also been awarded funding at a special ‘Celebration Showcase’ event held in Lewes on Thursday 19 June. Commenting on the funding award Don Newport, Chairman of Billingshurst Street Pastors, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this grant from the Police & Crime Commissioner’s Community Fund, which will support the ongoing work of Street Pastors in Billingshurst. The reassuring presence of our volunteers on the streets of the village has become a welcome and familiar sight. The teams patrol both at lunchtimes and evenings on a regular weekly pattern and have been well received; they will listen to everyone, young and old, and provide help to anyone who needs it. This boost to our funds will assist with training and equipping new Street Pastors.”

Commending Billingshurst Street Pastors on their successful bid Mrs Bourne said: “This is a great example of an innovative local project that aims to make our communities safer. The Safer in Sussex Community Fund was launched to help communities tackle crime and disorder and I am very pleased with the level of response we received during the first round of applications.”

Report and picture contributed by Don Newport, chairman of Billingshurst Street Pastors.