A RURAL taxi standards scheme has proved so successful that it is now to be extended to other areas.

An initiative to raise standards in taxi customer service has been piloted in the Wear Valley and Sedgefield areas of County Durham.

A number of drivers successfully completed the pilot course to gain the Intermediate Certificate in Licence Education for Taxi and Private Hire.

Training included customer care, disability equality and health and safety issues.

As a result of interest from taxi operators, the scheme is to be extended to other rural areas of County Durham.

Funding has come from the East and West Durham Rural Transport Partnerships (RTP), Countryside Agency and Durham County Council.

Dan Alliband, East Durham RTP officer, said: "This scheme is an excellent means of providing quality assurance for passengers who will be able to request a trained driver when booking their taxi."

Katie Wellstead, West Durham RTP officer, added: "Taxis are a vital and flexible mode of transport in rural areas.

"We are keen to support local employment and want to encourage the wide use of taxis alongside conventional public transport through providing a high level of customer care."

Funds for developing rural transport schemes are available through the Countryside Agency's Rural Transport Partnership Fund.

For further details telephone 0191-269 1600.