TAXI bosses in Sandwell have been given a special award from West Midlands Police for their work in helping to prevent child sexual exploitation.

The authority’s taxi licensing team was also praised by Chief Superintendent David Sturman, commander of the police’s operations department, for their role in thwarting fraud and traffic offences.

Members of the team were commended for enforcing laws and regulations among Sandwell’s 1,500 registered taxi drivers, as well as helping detect, suspend or ban poor drivers.

The award also thanked the team for supporting the force’s camera enforcement unit and assisting when police officers interview taxi drivers.

While handing over the award, Ch Supt Sturman told the team: “You continue to make the West Midlands, in particular the Sandwell area, a safer place to be and your tenacity, dedication to the role has resulted in you being part of the most successful licensing department in the West Midlands.”