Watch what wheels you choose for your ride home

That's the warning being reissued by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Essex Police as the festive party season hots up.

Revellers are urged to take note of the following essential details to make sure they get home safely: 

• for cabs flagged down at the kerb always check for a licence plate on the back of the cab and the driver's identification badge
• for pre-booked hire cars always carry the phone number of a licensed firm that you know and trust
• always check that the cab you get into is the one you ordered - and remember to look for the licensing plate and driver's badge and
• always check that the driver has been given your name and destination by their operator

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Public Protection and Waste, Councillor Tony Cox, said: "All properly licensed cabs and hire cars in Southend will have a licence plate issued by the authority where the cab is based.

"The plate is attached to the back of the cab near the number plate, and licensed drivers will also wear or display an identity badge.

"Vehicles with these plates will be subject to stringent mechanical checks, are properly insured, and the drivers will have been security-checked by the police."

Chief Inspector David Colwell, Essex Police District Commander for Southend, said: "Christmas and New Year are a great time for catching up with friends and having a good time.

"But it is very important to stay safe while out and about. I would appeal to those going out in the coming days to plan in advance how they intend to get home after their night out.

"Make one of your group a designated driver or book a taxi home in advance. Put the number of a licensed taxi into your phone so it is there if and when you need it.

"Whatever you do NEVER get into an unlicensed, private hire car - it's just not worth the risk."