TAXI marshals have been deployed in Salisbury over the festive period to help people get home safely and support the nighttime economy.

The marshals began work last Friday (December 12) managing the main taxi areas in the city centre, controlling queues and helping vulnerable people find licensed transport.

The initiative costs £4,200 and is funded through the ASB Hotspot Action Fund, managed by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

AEC Protection, currently providing ASB wardens in the city, will deploy two marshals from 10pm to 4.30am on Friday 19, Saturday 20, Wednesday 24, Friday 26, Saturday 27 and Wednesday 31.

The marshals are linked directly to the council’s CCTV and the neighbourhood police team.

Street pastors will also be on hand, carrying a kit including bottles of water, lollipops and emergency space blankets, as well as a dustpan and brush to clear up broken glass.

PCC Philip Wilkinson said: “During the festive period, we want to encourage people to visit all venues knowing they will be safe and can get home safely.

“My office has funded two welfare and vulnerability engagement (WAVE) training sessions for venues across the city and by funding marshals, we are creating a comprehensive package to ensure a safer night out in Salisbury.

“By bringing together key partners, we can work to ensure we provide a safe drinking environment for everyone.”

Throughout December, police have carried out high visibility patrols in the city centre, working with partner agencies to carry out licensing checks and ensure safety in the nighttime economy.

Inspector Tina Osborn, of the Salisbury neighbourhood policing team, said: “We welcome the deployment of taxi marshals in Salisbury over the festive period as it is a busy time of year in the city with many people out celebrating.”

Salisbury City Council manages the contract with AEC Protection.

Leader of the council Cllr Sam Charleston said: “Having taxi marshals in place gives people a clear point of guidance when the city is at its busiest.

“They help keep the taxi ranks organised, ensure queues move fairly, and offer support when people aren’t sure where to go.”

Advice on safe travel is available through Wiltshire Police’s Travel Safe webpage and guidance from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust.

People travelling over the festive period can send a text message to the British Transport Police discreetly on 61016, to report non-emergency crime or concerns.