VOLUNTEERS are to hit town centre streets on Bolton’s busiest nights to help youngsters who have drunk too much or have become separated from their friends.

The “Street Angels” initiative is linked to the Nite Cafe in Bank Street, in the town centre, which already provides a safe haven for people who have got into difficulties on a night out.

A similar scheme already operates in Halifax, where it has proved successful in reducing alcohol-related injuries.

The Angels will walk the street in groups of three, offering help and support to anyone who looks like they may need assistance.

One of the organisers, Adrienne Tonge, said: “We need volunteers — people who are good at listening.

“We want to go out among the people enjoying the nightlife offering support where it is needed.”

The cafe, based at Bank Street Unitarian Chapel, has just completed a successful three-month pilot.

Opening every Saturday, it acted as a waiting point for lifts home, as well as offering non-alcoholic drinks, toilets and help with booking taxis. It has now temporarily closed its doors while organisers prepare for the Street Angels scheme. Mrs Tonge added: “We hope to be able to open on Friday and Saturday but people only need to commit to one night a month.”

The Nite Cafe is in talks with a number of prospective partners to secure further funding for the scheme.

Training sessions will be held at Bank Street Chapel on November 22 and November 29, from 6.30pm to 9pm.

Street Angels and the Nite Cafe are run by Christian’s Together in Bolton, but the schemes are not religious by nature. To volunteer or to offer funding, call 01204 528633 and leave a message.