A SCHEME to keep Stourbridge night-goers safe has won an award from the Queen.

Stourbridge Street Pastors have won a 2018 Queens Award for Voluntary Services after nine years of patrolling the town centre.

The award – part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours – recognises the contribution that the Pastors have made to the safety, welfare and environment of the town over the past near-decade.

The pastors patrol from 10pm-3am in Stourbridge town centre every Saturday night and occasionally at other times too.

They offer help to anyone in trouble, provide first aid, deal with people suffering from the effects of drugs or alcohol, calm down groups in conflict and clean up broken glass to prevent injury.

Dave Watts, chairman of Stourbridge Street Pastors, said: “The award honours all who have worked together to serve our night-time community.

“Over the past year the town has had too much bad news.

“We are delighted that Her Majesty has given us some good news in recognising the tremendous work done by our team over the years and the contributions of all our local partners.

“The award also recognises our work helping form other local street pastor groups and the Regional Rail Pastor project.”

Over the past year, the pastors gave up 1,200 volunteer hours and supplied nearly 500 pairs of free flip-flops when high heels are causing pain.

The team – all volunteers and all committed Christians - includes 30 members who patrol and another 20 in support roles such as administration and prayer.

Councillor Nic Barlow tweeted: “Hearty congratulations to you all on this wonderful and well deserved award for recognition of the dedication and efforts put in to making sure those enjoying themselves in Stourbridge can do so safely as well as keeping a close eye on our more vulnerable people.”