A SECOND street pastor team is to be launched in Glasgow next month.

Volunteers from some of the city's west end churches are extending the service to cover the Byres Road and Dumbarton Road area on Friday nights.

Pastors currently cover the city centre on Saturdays, and some Fridays during holiday periods.

Ruth Scott, chairwoman of West End Street Pastors (WESP), said there was a "real need" for pastors in the west end on Friday nights.

She said: "The street pastors will be there to help people who have spent the evening in pubs, clubs and entertainment venues - especially those who may be suffering from excess alcohol consumption, or who are homeless, or victims of crime.

"They will also support those who have been separated from their friends, and those who are feeling the effects of the Glasgow weather."

There are around 100 street pastors in Glasgow who help people in trouble, homeless people and give flip-flops to barefoot young women to prevent them getting injured by broken glass or needles.

They wear recognisable blue jackets and baseball caps and are on duty from 10pm to 4am.

Ruth added: "There is a real need for street pastors to be available in the west end on Friday nights doing what they do best: caring, loving and helping the people they meet.

"We will be working closely with the business owners and emergency services to ensure that people in the area enjoy a safe, fun night out."

The pastors work with police and ambulance officials, as well as helping taxi marshals and officers from Community Safety Glasgow.

Before beginning work in January 2009, the pastors - who carry radios linking them to the Blochairn CCTV Control Centre - have 12 days' training in listening skills, first-aid, and advice from mental health professionals to help those contemplating suicide or struggling with addiction.

The launch of the second team will take place on February 20 at Partick Trinity church in Lawrence Street. They will gather for refreshments before heading out at 8pm.

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