Taxi Marshals back in town on Saturday nights - issued 20 April 2011

The fully trained security staff, funded by the Safer Guildford Partnership, start this weekend (Saturday 23 April). They will wear high visibility fluorescent jackets, work in pairs, and be on hand to offer assistance, guidance and support to all those using the often busy taxi rank at the bottom of North Street on Saturday nights, from 11.30pm to 3am. The scheme will run from April 23 until November 5.

Chief Inspector, Matt Goodridge said: "We know that as always Guildford will be a popular place to visit during the coming months, especially with so many exciting celebrations taking place.

He added: "Past experience has shown that by working together with other agencies we can help ensure that Guildford remains a fun and safe place for people to enjoy."

Taxi marshalling has proved very successful in Guildford in the past as well as in neighbouring boroughs. Their core responsibility is to ensure the safety of those using the town centre on Saturday evenings and the early hours of Sunday mornings.

Research has shown that the introduction of taxi marshals has played an important part in improving travel safety at night. At the same time it offers reassurance to town centre visitors and helps curb anti-social behaviour.

Guildford is set to be a popular destination for visitors wanting to celebrate a host of events this year including: St George's Day, the Royal Wedding, Guilfest, The Guildford Festival, Halloween, and Lions Bonfire night celebrations, to name but a few.

The taxi marshals are fully trained, and SIA (Security Industry Authority) badged and regulated. Thanks to the agreed funding by the Safer Guildford Partnership they will be out in force to help reduce crime and reassure people in the town centre on Saturdays nights for the next 29 weeks.

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