David Ouston

Dave set up Street Pastors on the Island. On duty between 10 and 3 at weekends in Ryde, Ventnor and Newport, they aim to help people in need, offering comfort, security or simply conversation. Practically, they supply flipflops to those who can no longer manage their high heels, lollipops to defuse confrontations, water and foil blankets. Non-judgmental and supportive, the Pastors operate in teams of 5. Described as 'a light in the darkness' they are supported by the police and the County Council. An officer from the CCTV office said that people don't realise they are being filmed so it is fascinating watching the change in people's body language as they interact with the street pastors. He added, "I was very sceptical about the scheme when I first heard about it, but now I'm convinced." Violent street crime in Ryde dropped by 43% in the first year. Dave is inspiring.