MARSHALLS will be patrolling Falmouth’s main taxi rank for the first time this weekend to try and bring an end to the late-night violence that has plagued The Moor in recent months.

The scheme will see security guards wearing hi-visibility vests stationed at the rank between 11.30pm and 3.30am on both Friday and Saturday nights.

Their role will be to monitor behaviour in the area, chat with people waiting for taxis, address any unwanted behaviour and report more serious matters directly to the police through the town radio system.

The service has been introduced after an increase in incidents of violent anti-social behaviour in the area.

Inspector Mark Richards of Falmouth police said: “Most people recognise that Falmouth is busier now much later into the night than it used to be.

“Sometimes those out visiting the town put themselves in a position where they can become victims through the amount of alcohol they have consumed.

“This service isn’t a knee jerk reaction to an increase in incidents but a measured response to a change in behaviour nationally.

“It is one of the many ways we can work as a community to keep Falmouth a top destination for an evening or night out.

“Almost all of the pubs, clubs and restaurants in the town have recognised this and have put up money to ensure their customers stay safe using the area around the taxi rank and The Moor.”

John Richards, managing director of Infinitus Security, who will be providing the guards, added: “I have personally selected the trained staff to take on this unique role.

“I have made it clear to my team that this is a customer service role, there to improve the feel of a night out in town.

“We do not have the powers of the police and will only ever intervene to protect a person or property from serious harm.

“We hope to provide a welcome focal point for people as they wend their way safely home.”

The scheme will run continuously throughout the year with a review at 3 months by the partnership to ensure that its objectives are being met and to tailor the service if needed.

The scheme has been backed by taxi drivers, University College Falmouth and the University of Exeter, local pubs, clubs and businesses and Falmouth Town Council.

Tom Arrington, chair of the Falmouth Taxi Association added, “Support from local businesses has been outstanding and highlights the common aim to continue to make Falmouth a good night out for a huge diversity of people.

“The scheme has been put in place to actively encourage people to use the taxi rank, and the Moor area, and to feel safe while doing so."