ST JOHN’S School Fayre raises in the region of £1,800!

It was a superb day, packed with attractions, activities and great fun.

THE Residents Community meeting at St Augustine’s Church Hall Pact section was led by PC Kevin Eames, who reported on issues previously raised.

There had been a decrease in burglaries, but continuing examples of anti-social behaviour requiring police attention.

Illegal camping at Lodmoor Country Park had been addressed by police and council officers, large amounts of alcohol had been confiscated from underage drinkers and successful drugs raids had also been carried out.

After a short discussion, issues to be addressed by next meeting were anti-social behaviour in local parks, unauthorised camping and anti-social cycling

Next came the inspiring presentation by Rev Tony Stephens, leader of the Weymouth Street Pastors, who described their activities.

Statistics in places where street pastors work show a decrease in crime, but the main aim is to engage with young people and to support the vulnerable.

The Weymouth group was launched in 2008.

Highly trained in a knowledge of drugs and alcohol, liaising closely with police and paramedics, Street Pastors work in small teams, looking for people in need of help or support, providing non-judgemental understanding.

They concentrate on the provision of support for the community and they are backed up with Christian prayer and support.

Although it can be challenging at times, Street Pastors enjoy the lively atmosphere of night-time in Weymouth and relate to the vast majority of happy people.

However, there is a need to provide support for those requiring help, are upset, or vulnerable. Rev Tony described some interesting “tricks of the trade” used in defusing awkward or dangerous situations.

He referred to the standard emergency items that the team members carry and some striking examples of ways that Street Pastors have affected the lives of people in need of support in a variety of ways.

ALL residents in the Southill area are most welcome at the Emmanuel Church Luncheon Club that meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August).

The two-course lunch plus tea or coffee costs £4.

For more details please call 01305 776781 or 784010.

NEW faces are most welcome at Emmanuel Church Coffee mornings held at the church on Tuesdays (in term time) from 10am-11.30am.

This is an opportunity to make new friends or catch up with old acquaintances and the coffee or tea and biscuits is just 50p!