Street Marshals Prove 'Useful Asset' in Barnstaple, Say Traders and Community Groups
Street marshals in Barnstaple are being hailed as a 'useful asset' by local traders and community groups, who say their presence is making a tangible difference to public safety and behaviour in the town centre.
Part-funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and North Devon District Council, the marshals respond to incidents of poor behaviour and street crime, and also carry out welfare checks on homeless individuals. Their role is separate from—but complementary to—the regular police force and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and they must hold specific accreditation to operate.
Emily Zatac, from Barnstaple Library, said the marshals had built a strong rapport with the public. “They’ve become a positive and useful asset for Barnstaple,” she said, noting that they respond ‘really quickly’ to concerns.
Natasha Jennings, who runs House of Tweed, echoed that sentiment, describing the marshals as “always on hand” and “worth their weight in gold”. Their feedback highlights a broader sense of reassurance felt by those who work and shop in the area.
The scheme extends beyond Barnstaple. Across Devon and Cornwall, towns including Bideford, Exeter, Exmouth, Paignton, Plymouth, Newton Abbot, Tiverton, Torquay, Bodmin, Camborne, Newquay, Penzance, St Austell and Truro also have accredited marshals patrolling streets.
Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said the programme provides “a reassuring and visible presence in communities” and confirmed that “all areas had shown a reduction in reports of anti-social behaviour” since the marshals began operating.
However, the OPCC funding that currently supports the scheme is due to end in September. Local councils have said they are exploring alternative ways to keep the marshals on patrol beyond that point, signalling a broader conversation about the long-term sustainability of community safety initiatives.
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Related reads:Street marshals to continue patrols in South West | Marshals become 'eyes and ears' of Cornwall town | Barnstaple street marshal scheme gets £25k boost