A GROUP of volunteers who provide a “friendly face” for people enjoying a night out have helped reduce the number of violent incidents in a North Yorkshire town.

Street Angels was set up last year and recently celebrated its first anniversary of working in Malton.

The group patrols every Saturday night with members providing a reassuring presence on the streets, as well as bottles of water, general assistance and picking up litter.

PC Jane Jones, who started Street Angels as part of Christian Nightlife Initiatives, said: “We receive much positive feedback from members of the general public for simply being available to help and support.

“The welcome received on the street assure us that Street Angels are offering a useful service in the community.”

Inspector Andy Everitt, head of Ryedale police, said violence and incidents in Malton town centre had continued to fall this year and that the volunteer Street Angels had played their part.

“We know from experience that many incidents of violence and disorder in the night-time economy occur because poor or deteriorating behaviour on the part of individuals or groups is not challenged effectively by persons at an early stage, thus allowing tensions to build,” he said.

“This does not mean a heavy-handed approach, but rather a visible presence and a willingness to engage with such individuals or groups early in the evening while also taking the opportunity to remind them of their responsibilities and need for consideration of others.”