HELP was on hand for boozed up revellers enjoying Colchester’s nightlife on Saturday night.

The new Colchester SOS Bus, operated by Open Road, was launched by Colchester mayor Christopher Arnold at a special ceremony outside the at 6pm on Saturday.

Run by a team of trained volunteers, the bus will provide late night medical help for partygoers and provided a safe place for vulnerable revellers.

Wayne Powell, co-ordinator of the SOS bus, said his team assist between 10 and 15 people every night.

He said: “The idea is to reduce anti-social behaviour in the night time economy.

“We act as a ‘safe haven’ for those disoriented and at risk and we work with pubs, clubs and the Police to reduce anti-social behavior fuelled by drug and alcohol misuse.”

Councillor Tim Young, the cabinet member for community safety, said: “The bus gives people peace of mind, safety and security.

“The bus has been funded by the council which shows our commitment to this project and we are delighted with the result.

“I hope it is fixed in town for many years to come.”

 

See tomorrow’s Daily Gazette for more.