STREET Angels are being heralded by Cleveland Police for helping revellers.

More than 100 volunteers give up their time on Fridays and Saturdays across Teesside.

There are now Street Angels projects in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton, Redcar and Guisborough.

During the last year they have handed out more than 800 free flip-flops to women struggling to walk in heels and 400 hot drinks, recovered more than 4,500 bottles, put 76 vulnerable people in taxis, given first aid to 167 people and put in more than 6,500 volunteer hours.

An event is being held by Cleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Barry Coppinger, and Cleveland Chief Constable, Jacqui Cheer, to celebrate their work.

Mr Coppinger said: “The work which they do assists the police and other emergency services immensely, and in many cases they are able to resolve issues without the need for additional assistance from core services, thereby enabling the police and other emergency services to focus where they are most needed."

Steve Brock, Project Manager for Stockton Town Pastors and Regional Coordinator for Street Angels - Christian Nightlife Initiatives, added: “It is tremendous news that Cleveland's Police and Crime Commissioner has chosen to say thank you to all who are involved in local projects.”