Top Night Out taxi hits the streets

Have a top night out in Plymouth and make sure you get home safely, that's the message as a new campaign literally takes to the streets in Plymouth.

A taxi branded with the top night out safety messages will be driving around the city this festive season to remind people to make travel plans for the end of an evening out. It's part of a safety campaign championed by local charity Twelves Company and supported by Safer Plymouth, the partnership that includes Plymouth City Council and the police.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Co-operatives and Community Development said: "The festive party season is almost upon us and everyone likes to get out into town and have a drink. We just want to remind people about their personal safety and making plans for their journey home."

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet member for Environment whose portfolio includes taxi licensing said: "Using a taxi is an ideal way to get this message to people who are out enjoying themselves in the evening. It's a really busy time of year and no-one wants a fun night out to end badly so making a 'get home safely' plan is really important. Booking private hire cars or knowing the location of your nearest taxi rank for black cabs is a good start."

The black cab carries the Top Night Out campaign messages and the 'five rules':

Don't go home with someone you've just met
Know your limits
Stay safe, stay together
Know your taxi company
Have fun!

Chief Inspector Ian Drummond-Smith said, "Plymouth is a safe place and a great night out for people wanting to enjoy the festive season. But the taxi conveys a serious message; we hope people will take responsibility for their own safety, not to drink too much, look after their friends and not put themselves in potentially dangerous situations."

The black cab is owned by Ian Graham who added: "It's a really good idea to get this message out there. I see a lot of women in particular on a Friday and Saturday night trying to flag down any vehicle for a ride home. Hackney cabs are the only ones who are can pick people up on the street, they are maintained and driven by qualified people. Please use licensed taxis."