VOLUNTEER street pastors have signed up to help keep Witney revellers safe late at night – by handing out flip-flops and a cuppa.

The team of Christians from local churches will hand out sweets to drunks, footwear to women unable to walk in high heels, and offer a listening ear and mugs of tea to those in need.

The plan for the first Witney Street Pastors, part of a nationwide scheme already used in Wantage and Oxford, was unveiled in May.

On Tuesday, more than 50 people gathered at the Corn Exchange, in Market Square, to find out about the project and volunteer their time.

Stephen Hodge, chairman of Churches Together in Witney, said that most of the 12 volunteers needed were recruited on the night.

He said: “We were very encouraged to receive the support of the mayor of Witney, and of West Oxfordshire District Council. It was great that so many Christians were there, as it is an opportunity for them to show their faith in a practical way.

“We received a very good response from volunteers, considering it is for the middle of the night.”

All volunteers will go on a 15-week training course before they hit the streets.

Some 10 volunteers have now signed up to the scheme, with three more helpers.

Mr Hodge added: “What we are trying to do is get sufficient volunteers to make it run and obviously not to put too much of a burden on each particular volunteer as it can go on until 2am to 3am.”

Witney Street Pastors will be in the town on Fridays and Saturdays.

Churches in Witney have contributed £1,000 towards training volunteers, while West Oxfordshire District Council gave £2,000.