MORE than 450 taxi drivers have taken part in training to help them spot the signs of sexual abuse of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

The training of drivers from every firm in Pendle also included raising awareness about human trafficking.

Pendle Council teamed up with Nelson and Colne College’s Lancashire Adult Learning to deliver the safeguarding training for 452 drivers between October and January.

“We want all taxi drivers to be able to spot vital signs which might show that a child, young adult or adult is at risk,” said Cllr David Whipp, who leads on community safety.

The training was attended by virtually all of Pendle’s taxi drivers.

The nine drivers who didn’t attend have had their licences suspended until they have attended the training. Under Pendle’s new taxi policy, all drivers must be checked for any convictions since their licence was granted.