Telford and Shrewsbury street pastors practise river rescue skills
Volunteers from Telford and Shrewsbury have swung into action to receive life-saving training on river rescues from Shropshire firefighters.
Street pastors took part in a 90-minute training session at Frankwell Quay in Shrewsbury last night, learning how to throw buoyancy aids and lines from the safety of the towpath to members of the fire brigade's Swift Water Rescue Team who were in the water.
A total of 14 people took part in yesterday's event, with two further sessions planned later this month.
It comes after it was revealed the introduction of the street pastors, who protect vulnerable people on the streets, has resulted in a major fall in the number of drownings in the River Severn in Shrewsbury.
Fire chief John Redmond said: "The contribution from Street Pastors to community safety in the past 12 months has been immense. Our firefighters are pleased to help with their request to improve their water safety skills."
The volunteers have been given four throwlines and belts to carry during their 10pm to 4am Saturday night patrols.
