New marshals head out on overnight patrols in Colchester
The idea is to make people feel safe overnight
Two new marshals are heading out onto Colchester's streets for the first time this week.
The idea is to give an 'extra level of support' to keeping the town safe between 9pm and 4am, Wednesday to Saturday.
The Town Marshals will help to spot any developing issues and intervene early to deal with low level disorder and will also be on hand to ensure assistance is given to any vulnerable people in the town centre and will link into the CCTV control room.
Cllr Beverley Oxford, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Communities, said:
"This week has been the first time many of our hospitality venues have re-opened their doors fully to the public for 18-months.
"We were pleased to welcome so many people to our town and it was great to see our restaurants and bars so busy.
"We want everyone using the town, for whatever reason, to feel and be safe. The Town Marshals will be very visible and will provide extra reassurance to help make a night out in Colchester as pleasant, comfortable and safe as possible."
Following the Covid-19 rules being lifted this week, a significant amount of litter was left behind in Colchester town centre on Monday night, including bottles, cigarette butts and broken glass left around the pavements.
The council's Neighbourhood team reacted quickly and completed a major clean-up operation early Tuesday morning, ensuring the town centre was clean and welcoming for shoppers and visitors.
As we approach the first weekend after the Covid-19 rules have been lifted, the council is calling on residents and visitors to consider those who live and work in the town centre, when enjoying a night out.
Cllr Beverley Oxford added:
"Disappointingly, we were faced with a significant litter issue on Tuesday Morning, alongside some instances of anti-social behaviour damaging hand sanitisers, which are there for everyone's protection.
"While the addition of the two new Night-time Economy Marshals will help to tackle this, I urge people to be respectful of each other and their surroundings. Everyone has a part to play in making sure that it is a fun, safe and welcoming experience for all."