THE first town centre wardens to patrol the town centres of Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport are undergoing training for their new jobs and cannot wait to hit the streets.John Sinclair and Lee Hanson who are pioneering a town centre warden scheme.

John Sinclair and Lee Hanson are pioneering a pilot scheme to tackle anti-social behaviour, petty crime and vandalism.

John, 54, who previously ran his own print company in Birmingham, said: "Part of the reason I wanted this job is to do something in the community instead of being a commuter.

"It's a new venture and an exciting thing to get involved with. We've got the chance to develop this role and really make it work because it's a trial."

Meanwhile, Lee, 27, who has worked as a trainee computer technician and ground maintenance man, said he was hoping his background as a special constable in Derby would help him settle into his new career.

"This is a similar sort of thing so I've got a good insight into what the job may be, even though it's a totally new thing," he said.

"I've worked doing town centre beats and talking to people so I've got a good idea of what may lie ahead."

The new scheme, which has secured funding until March, is the brainchild of the district's Community Safety Partnership, which includes representatives from businesses, councils, voluntary agencies and the emergency services. It will run in conjunction with the existing Neighbourhood Warden Scheme operated by Wyre Forest Community Housing.