SECURITY staff are patrolling Taunton’s streets to ensure shoppers and visitors have a hassle-free festive trip into the town centre.

Each day the trained ‘wardens’ will walk key routes, parks, public loos and any known trouble hot-spots.

The month-long scheme, funded by Taunton Deane Council, aims to “deter and disrupt troublemakers” and provide reassurance for people coming into the town during the busiest period of the year.

Cllr Jane Warmington, who holds the council’s community leadership portfolio, said: “The wardens are there to help visitors to our county town at the busiest time of year.

“Their role is to spot any trouble that might annoy or upset people and to report any incidents quickly to the authorities.

“We are investing in making Taunton an attractive place and this is just the latest example of how we as a council can help.

“We want people to remember Taunton for all its good things and to return because they have had a great day out.”

Mrs Warmington said shoppers and retailers had welcomed the initiative, which is being delivered in co-operation with the police, Somerset Businesses Against Crime and security firm 3D, who supply the wardens.

The patrols are easily spotted, with the wardens clearly badged as ‘Taunton Deane Borough Council Town Wardens’.

They will generally work during shop opening times, including busy periods such as late night shopping on Thursdays.