BAR staff and bouncers will be trained to spot the signs of sexual exploitation.

A scheme training Darlington’s taxi drivers to identify markers of sexual exploitation was so successful it is being rolled out to door and bar staff.

More than 200 taxi drivers and private hire operators have undertaken free training sessions led by Darlington Borough Council.

Next month will see further sessions offered to those working in the town’s night time economy.

The council has written to bars and nightspots across the town to encourage staff to attend training events in May.

The sessions will cover awareness of sexual exploitation and the impact on children and adults at risk.

They will also teach participants how to identify the signs of exploitation happening and how to respond to the concerns.

Training sessions are free but places are limited.

To book, call 01325 406391.