The city's CID is encouraging those involved in the night-time entertainment industry to play their part in keeping women revellers safe, to avert situations that could lead to sex assaults.

Taxi drivers and bar staff will also be encouraged to play a part in keeping intoxicated women safe, such as in instances where they become separated from friends or appear to be given unwanted attention by men.

Police will train doormen to recognise signs a woman may be vulnerable and help her – for example by calling a taxi for her, helping find her friends, intervening where someone is being pestered, and calling a relative or friend to collect them.

But officers have also warned women that they should take responsibility for their own safety by having "contingency plans" when enjoying a night out.

Mark Prendegast, 37, a doorman for Kudos Security in Leyland, has worked in Preston's clubs and welcomed the plans. The 6ft 2ins bouncer has seen first hand the difficulties women can get into when drunk.

He said: "The problem we have at this time of year is large groups of women, who may not ordinarily go out drinking, turning out for Christmas parties and getting extremely drunk – which leaves them more vulnerable than normal.

"Usually we try to speak to the person in the group who is not drinking to try and keep the group sensible and get them on our side.

"Women should not be afraid to confide in a doorman if they feel uncomfortable about unwanted attention or pressure from the opposite sex. That's what we are here for.

"You will always get men and women befriending each other. However, it is sometimes difficult to recognise signs that the woman is vulnerable, which is why we welcome this awareness initiative."

Det Insp Dave McKenna, of Preston CID, said: "This is a preventative measure. We are asking doormen and others involved in Preston's night-time industry, including the Licensed Victuallers' Association, bars and taxis, to take more responsibility in helping keep customers safe."

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