AT 10pm every Saturday, volunteers leave the warmth of their church in Weymouth to help those worse for wear on the street.
Led by former submariner Andrew Reid, the street pastors patrol the town centre and harbour into the early hours.
I witnessed their impact when I joined them recently with David Sidwick, the Police & Crime Commissioner.
After a briefing by secretary Alison Taylor, we ventured out of St Mary’s Church, armed with Kit Kats, lollipops, flip-flops and water.
I soon understood their significance.
Within seconds of arriving outside the first bar, we were inundated by requests for lollipops, by far the most popular item.
Sugar, I was told, was necessary for those who have drunk too much.
Water is essential, while flip-flops are given to women who have either lost their shoes, or whose feet are in agony after wearing high-heels.
The volunteers are not on their own.
Strictly non-judgemental, they are linked by radio to the police, CCTV and door staff.
Help to those who need it is immediate, with further assistance available at a ‘safe space’ back in the church, where a paramedic is located.
Regrettably, funding for this essential asset is short.
Established in 2007 by the Reverend Tony Stephens, there are currently 16 street pastors.
Volunteers need to be a church member for a year and then recommended by the vicar to qualify.
Training takes six to eight weeks.
Andrew says their presence reduces crime and that they have saved several lives in the two years he’s been in charge.
He’s keen to cover Friday nights, too, as they used to, but more volunteers are needed.
They need to be dedicated, gentle and selfless, just like those I had the honour to meet.