Heroes come in many shapes and forms. Some wear flashy uniforms to fight crime while fictional characters have powers that make them more formidable.
Christians volunteering with the Inverclyde's Street Pastors Team don't wear fancy costumes nor have superpowers but they have been keeping the streets of Greenrock safe from crime and they are in need of reinforcements to continue their mission.
"Street Pastors do a number of practical things; these include providing free flip-flops to girls and ladies who have been in high heels for the evening. The flip-flops mean they do not have to walk barefoot on the pavements and streets with the dangers of cutting their feet," coordinator Alistair McAlees said.
McAlees, who is a pioneer of the project, said that the Street Pastors motto is "caring, listening, helping," fulfilling their mission from the distribution of flip flops and space blankets to those in need, disposing of glass bottles so they won't be used to cause harm, making sure people get home safely, to listening to young people in dealing with their issues.
The group, which started in UK in 2003, has grown its membership to include 300 towns and cities where the teams go out every Saturday.
However, the group is still targeting an increase in their numbers so they can provide their services for more days.
"The group will be approaching local churches shortly to outline the Street Pastor project and look to grow our numbers. Street Pastors commit to being out on the streets once every four weeks from about 10pm until 4am and full training is given on a wide number of aspects of the role," he said.
"We really find it a privilege to be out where young people are and to be able to offer practical help and well as a listening ear."
