'Sensible tips' for district taxi drivers (From Witney Gazette)

'Sensible tips' for district taxi drivers

8:35pm Friday 8th February 2008 in Witney By David Horne

ALL taxi and private hire car operators in West Oxfordshire are being given new leaflets on how to avoid pitfalls with their passengers.

They have been produced by the district council in collaboration with the police and with the backing of the Federation of Small Businesses.

They give handy tips on how to reduce confrontation, having emergency procedures in place, and identifying crime suspects.

Local taxi driver Barry Wheatley, who is also chairman of the federation in Oxfordshire, said: "The leaflets are a good example of how local businesses, the council, and police can work together to promote safety in the community.

"They contain some good, sensible tips for drivers, that will not only help protect their safety, but should assist them improve their customer handling skills as well."

Leaflets for passengers are also being produced, and will be available at council offices, libraries, doctors' surgeries, and pubs and restaurants.

David Harvey, council cabinet member for licensing - pictured with Mr Wheatley - said incidents of crime against drivers were rare in the district. He added: "But it is one of our top priorities to protect and enhance the district and maintain its low level of crime."