Aberdeen Street Pastors is celebrating their ten years of service.

The group, which brings together volunteers, partners, representatives from council, Police Scotland and the church.

It started in 2007 with just 25 volunteers but now has a team of more than 200 people from 35 different churches across the city.

Well known for giving out their famous flip flops to ladies teetering home, the team has also given first aid to over a 1000 people, handed out blankets and hot drinks to people in need.

Furthermore, they have calmed more than 1300 situations of conflict that could have escalated.

It means they have potentially prevented more than 130 potential assaults a year, saving the public purse £1m annually.

The initiative has expanded into daytime activities by launching Retail Pastors and School Pastors, a mentoring and life coaching initiative working alongside pupils in a busy diverse secondary school supporting them to fulfil their potential.

Development director James Duce said: "I love that the church in this city is making a real difference to people's lives.

"I remember when we first started on the streets a hen party shouted 'hey there's the peace makers'. I believe that something of that comment has echoed through the ten years.

"Our teams haven't just brought peace to angry situations but they have had the privilege of listening and showing real love to folks that are perhaps having a tough time and even praying for individuals when asked."

He added: "Our Friday and Saturday teams have been overwhelmed by the gratitude and words of encouragement from those that we meet on the street in the small hours of the mornings.

"The real champions are our volunteers who give up time and sleep to demonstrate genuine love to the city."

Operations director Gerry Bowyer said: "Working in partnership has played a vital role in seeing the work of street pastors expand.

"We are grateful to all of our partners that have assisted and supported us as we continue to play our part in seeing our communities become safer places to live.

"It has been wonderful to see the work of street pastors enthusiastically received by our city."