CST growing in Stamford Hill

THE COMMUNITY Security Trust’s campaign to expand its volunteer team in Stamford Hill has resulted in 50 recruits in its first year.

Following a graduation event last week — the third over the past year — 20 additional trained volunteers will be available for the High Holy Days.

Mark Gardner, CST’s director of communications, hoped the influx would “provide reassurance to locals.

“Security volunteers should reflect the communities they come from. They have a far better awareness of what the local environment is like, what belongs in it and what is out of place. Especiall y when it comes t o i d e n - t i f y i n g u n u s u a l behaviour, you really want volunteers from within the community.

“There are 50 volunteers now when previously it was only a handful, so we’re building up momentum.” Mr Gardner said there was no conflict between CST and local volunteer security service Shomrim.

“We appreciate each other’s strengths and complement each other’s work.

“It also helps consolidate already good links between the community and Haringey police,” he added. Two police officers attended the graduation.

Nationwide, CST has recruited 500 extra volunteers over the past year.

There are 50 volunteers now when before it was only a handful