A successful Street Pastors team in one of the UK's busiest cities is set to fold at the end of the month through lack of funding. The scheme costs approximately £25,000 to run and is largely supported by the Home Office, although it raises some of its own funding. The Street Pastors are accountable to the police and local authority as well as the Welsh Assembly Government. 'Like everyone, we're feeling the economic pinch,' explained Gary Smith, who runs Cardiff Street Pastors. 'It really is a huge shame because we believe we've done a significant work to help reduce crime on our city centre streets to its lowest figure for 25 years.' They have full support from the police, who have been actively, but as yet unsuccessfully, seeking new areas of funding', said Mr Smith. Inspector Tony Bishop, who is responsible for policing Cardiff city centre, described the Street Pastors' presence as 'invaluable'.' Pray: for new funding and reorganisation that will allow the Street Pastors to continue their important work in some form. (Pr.12:14)