A YOUNG woman has told how she ended up cold, scared and alone on the streets of Hereford.

A guardian angel came to her in the form of a street pastor from Vennture, the charity that operates a team of 160 trained volunteers providing a reassuring presence for those enjoying the city's nightlife.

Young women like Julie (not her real name) are among those the Hereford Times Christmas Appeal, in partnership with Vennture, aims to help.

Julie said: "I had never imagined an innocent drink out with my friends would turn into what it did.

"I don’t remember much of what happened. I started to feel out of control and not very well. Apparently, I had left my friends and ended up outside in the cold on my own.

"I don’t remember much: just waking up in the hospital the next day. The medical staff told me what had happened, and were pretty confident I had been spiked. I wasn’t able to leave until 7pm the following day.

"It scares me to think how badly the night could have ended had Vennture not done what they did. I can’t thank them enough.”

Vennture provides a safe and reassuring presence on the streets of Hereford, ensuring our young people make it home safely after enjoying a night out. They offer first aid, a listening ear and a safe journey home while reducing the demand on local emergency services.

Please donate what you can to help support Vennture in helping local people this Christmas. Visit bit.ly/HTchristmas2024