Self-appointed guardian angels are walking the streets of Milton Keynes at night to help people in distress or under threat.

The Street Ministers – a small army of volunteers from city churches – spring to the rescue of young clubbers in trouble, homeless people and victims of violence.

And the 'secret' weapon to defuse any aggression is a dose of tender, loving care – and a bar of chocolate.

"We'll offer chocolate to calm rising aggression and we'll offer a friendly ear or shoulder to cry on," said spokesman Rev George Booty, who describes Street Ministers as the "eyes and ears" of the after-dark community.

"Night time in Milton Keynes is a crucial time for young people, clubbers and revellers who are vulnerable and get caught up in trouble and often serious situations. They need our help," he said.

The volunteers keep a watchful eye on the growing number of homeless people sleeping rough in the city.

"There are many rough sleepers that are truly homeless and live on our streets. Some cannot get the help they need anywhere else than through our street ministry...we go out night after night offering simple care, hot drinks and sandwiches," said Rev Booty.

He said the Street Minister project was founded to complement the work of other agencies and seek ways to "fill in the cracks" of existing care.

"It could be that we offer help to an unsteady girl who can no longer walk in her stilettos. Or we could wait with a person who is hurt until medical help arrives.

"We offer this gift of presence to the social community and our conscious presence on the streets usually helps to bring calmness, reducing crime and violence in inner city areas."

The project, though run by Christians, accepts volunteers from any faith or non-believers. It is appealing for more volunteers, who must be over 18, to go through the Street Minister training.

Anyone interested can call the scheme co-ordinator Steve Bamber on 07510 253611 or 07799 847720. Alternatively they can apply online at www.streetministers.org