A TEAM of young volunteers who are helping the NHS save thousands of pounds while keeping Hereford's night-time economy safe have won a national award.

Seven young volunteers from Vennture's Lean on Me team, who are also students at Hereford Sixth Form College, attended a ceremony in London to receive the National Crimebeat Award.

They were joined by the High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Bill Jackson, and the Mayor of Hereford, Councillor Jim Kenyon.

The awards are organised by the High Sheriff’s Association of England and Wales.

High Sheriff, Bill Jackson, who submitted the application, said: "To come top out of the 23 initiatives nominated from all over England and Wales is a fantastic achievement. It reflects the great things our young people are doing and the impact of Lean on Me."

The National Crimebeat Award is for young people playing a significant role in crime reduction or prevention.

Lean on Me is reducing demands on local blue light services so they are available to help people who really need them.

Door staff and Street Pastors refer people to the innovative volunteer-run pathway.

Volunteers undergo rigorous medical training so they can assess the people referred to them to make sure they are safe to stay with them, they then supervise their recovery while getting friends or family to get them home safely.

Mayor of Hereford, Cllr Jim Kenyon, said: "It’s amazing how these young people are helping make Hereford one of the safest places in the country to have a night out. This is Hereford at its best. "Everybody looking out for each other and achieving something truly exceptional.”

After collecting their award, the sixth formers were treated to an open top bus tour of the capital and a trip on The London Eye.

Robert Thomas, Vennture’s Lead Executive, said: “Most of our young volunteers want careers in medicine. The Lean on Me experience helps them apply to courses demanding frontline experience. They train very hard and learn to stay awake helping others recover safely into the early hours. This recognition of their work was unexpected, well-deserved and greatly appreciated.”

To volunteer in Lean on Me e-mail enquiries@vennture.org.uk