TAXI marshals have taken to the streets of Chipping Sodbury in an effort to crack down on late-night crime.

Pub-goers were helped home for the first time on Friday and Saturday night by marshals employed by South Gloucestershire Council.

They helped revellers keep an orderly queue in the taxi rank, which was installed outside the George pub on Broad Street earlier this year, and assisted police until 2am.

Other duties the marshals will undertake include helping to prevent anti-social behaviour and assaults, providing witness statements to police and stopping unauthorised taxi drivers from picking up passengers.

Cllr Heather Goddard, executive member for communities, said: "This scheme will be welcomed by local businesses and residents, as well as people who come to Chipping Sodbury to enjoy a safe night out.

"Research of national marshalling schemes shows that they offer comfort, support and a strong visual presence with the dual effect of reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, and increasing public confidence."

The scheme comes after an increase in anti-social behaviour in the High Street on Friday and Saturday nights. Shopkeepers and residents complained about a rise in criminal damage to their cars and properties, groups of pub-goers swearing and shouting into the early hours of the morning and litter left in the street.

Cllr Linda Boon (Lib Dem, Chipping Sodbury) said: "Anyone who has a home or business on Chipping Sodbury’s High Street, as I do, will be well aware of the problems caused by the rowdier elements on Friday and Saturday nights.

"I tentatively welcome this scheme, which I hope will reduce anti-social behaviour and crime."

Cllr Dave Hockey (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell), who led a council review into tackling anti-social behaviour, said: "Once our review found that a taxi marshal scheme in Kingswood was a real success I was keen to see one in Chipping Sodbury.

"I have been pushing for it to be operational in the run up to Christmas and over the New Year period when Chipping Sodbury will be at its busiest - the extra protection provided will I am sure be much appreciated by all involved."

The marshals will work from 10pm until 2am on Friday and Saturdays.