Sussex Police night safety marshal scheme axed in Eastbourne

The night patrol scheme, which was launched in Eastbourne in 2024, will ‘cease to operate’ in the town from April.

It comes following a ‘significant reduction’ in funding, according to Sussex Police.

Active each Friday and Saturday night between 8pm and 4am, the team patrolled in high-visibility uniforms, equipped with body-worn cameras and radio links to police.

The scheme aimed to increase safety on the streets by reducing anti-social behaviour and supporting local businesses, complementing the work of the Eastbourne Street Pastors.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “The Night Safety Marshal scheme has contributed to safety and crime prevention in Sussex over several years.

“Due to a significant reduction in Home Office funding, this service has unfortunately had to be reduced.”

Chief Inspector Jim Loader added: “Our priority is to protect the public and deliver the best possible service using the funding available.

“Night Safety Marshals will continue to operate at a reduced capacity in Brighton to continue their important work in enhancing the safety of our night-time economy.

“From April, the teams will cease to operate in Eastbourne, Crawley and Worthing.

"Police officers and our partners will continue to provide a proactive, visible presence in these areas to protect the public and support vulnerable people.

“Keeping people safe in the night-time economy remains a key focus for Sussex Police and we will closely monitor these changes to ensure we are using the available funding as effectively as possible.”