Cab drivers can report crimes via mobile texting

The system allows officers to get details such as, descriptions of suspects or getaway vehicles, to cabbies soon after the crime.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir John Stevens said: "This will put dozens of extra pairs of eyes and ears on the streets."

The scheme involving the police and council, in Bromley, south-east London, and the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA), will also allow drivers to report any conversations they overhear in their vehicles regarding criminal activity.

The system works by an officer, attending a scene of a crime for the first time, sending the details to a central messaging bureau.

New station

This centre will then send a text message to the fleet of taxi drivers.

If one of the cabbies has any relevant information he can then contact the investigating officer directly.

Sir John said: "This is an excellent scheme which will provide the police with a valuable source of information."

Tony Ellis, from the LTDA, said: "Cab drivers are just pleased to be able to help.

"We hope that if it's successful we'll be able to roll it out to neighbouring boroughs."