UNSUNG heroes were celebrated during a ceremony to mark the first anniversary of Warrington Street Pastors.

Since the launch of the community group 12 months ago, volunteers armed with bottles of water and flip flops have descended on the town centre every Friday night to offer free support and advice.

Over the past year, the Christian organisation has helped countless people while reducing crime during busy periods in the town centre.

Chairman John Britton and The Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs were joined by senior leaders from the council and police as well as Warrington South MP Faisal Rashid and Archdeacon Roger Preece on Friday at Holy Trinity Church in the town centre.

During his speech, Mr Briggs congratulated the volunteers for their efforts.

He said: “We don’t have the statistics yet for the second six months of your work but the arrests by the police linked to alcohol and anti-social behaviour have dropped by an amazing 26 per cent.

“That saves significant resources for the police and it also means that many people who would otherwise now have a criminal record do not have the record to blight their life.

“It is not surprising that the police have asked if you can work on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings as well.”

Police and crime commissioner for Cheshire Keane also thanked the volunteers for their commitment to keeping residents save.

He added: “Keep up the great work everybody, I’m proud to support you and will be with you every step of the journey.”