A PATROL group are calling for recruits to help increase patrols on Canvey.

Duncan Lamont, from Basildon, first formed the Streetsafe Canvey Patrol Group seven months ago, and is looking for more to join them in their mission to keep the island safe.

The 47 year old explained: “We want the community to be safe, so we’re taking a stand against the yobs who cause trouble.

“It’s not fair for the islanders anymore. People are scared even in their own homes and are being attacked for no reason at all, like the elderly lady who was attacked a few weeks ago outside the Co-Op, or the yobs who smashed up Costcutter in a fight. I actually patrolled Costcutter from noon until it closed a few days after to make sure they were protected.

“Nothing is dealt with, these kids just run riot and lives are at risk.

“When we’re patrolling we’re called to lots of different areas, and there’s only about eight of us which can attend.

“The more volunteers we have on Canvey, the more coverage these areas have, acting as a deterrent meaning a safer island in general.”

All volunteers receive self defence and first aid training, and are protected by stab proof vests and body cameras when out on patrol, which they do every week in uniform.

Duncan continued: “The safety of our group is priority when we’re out on patrol.

“Our body cameras pick up anything up to six feet away, so for serious crimes we give the footage to the Castle Point policing team

“You never know what you could run into. One time we had a whole car full of yobs pull up and get out, clearly wanting a confrontation. They got back in the car once they saw the body cameras though.”

Streetsafe hope to steer youths away from crime and towards a bright future, and are welcoming anyone over age 18 to join the group.

The founder added: “We want to show these youngsters that there’s more in life than gangs and fights. Lots of people from the community see the good work we do and have helped so much with support and donations. Some have even given us bikes so that we can chase after the yobs.” Visit www.facebook.com/StreetsafeEssex/