TAXI drivers in Hereford have been given new tools to better prepare them for the city's night-time culture.

Drivers have taken part in a two-day training programme in emergency first aid and safeguarding, with participants being assessed on real life scenarios acted out by drama students from Herefordshire and Ludlow College.

The training was part of the Community Safety Partnership’s Safe HERE initiative which aims to bring people together to share learning from Vennture’s Street Pastor Lean-on-Me initiative.

The Police and Crime Commissioner’s community ambassador and coordinator, Paul Deneen, presented certificates to the first taxi drivers graduating from the course.

Inspector for Hereford city centre, Nick Semper, of West Mercia Police, said: "Taxi drivers and door staff are an essential part of our local economy. They also play a vital role in keeping everyone safe.

"SafeHERE harnesses the public spirit of the drivers and provides them with essential training to make Herefordshire the safest county in the Midlands."

Rob Thomas, from Vennture, said people often take for granted the 'vital role' that taxi drivers play in keeping people safe.

"We are delighted to give them access to the quality training that helps people have a good time and come home safe," he added.