March 2, 2001 10:02: A CHARITY has praised taxi drivers and Chiltern District Council for working together to provide a better service for blind people with guide dogs.

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association asked the council to encourage cabbies to allow guide dogs into their vehicles.

The council, which licenses private hire vehicles, voted to add a new clause to its licensing conditions allowing guide dogs into taxis unless drivers have a valid medical condition.

Geraldine Peacock, the association's chief executive, said: "Chiltern District Council has set an example for other councils to follow."

The move brings private hire vehicles in line with rules already governing licensed taxis.