A YOUNG woman was taken to safety by fast-acting bar staff on New Year’s Eve after using a code-phrase designed to help people who feel threatened on a night out.

Heroic and commendable employees at an unnamed bar in Colchester have been praised after supporting a woman when she started to feel uncomfortable with a man.

The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, was able to discreetly seek out assistance going to order a drink before asking staff if Angela worked at the venue.

The Ask Angela initiative enables bargoers or clubbers who feel vulnerable to alert workers to a situation which may be putting them in danger.

On this occasion, the staff immediately told the woman Angela was out back before asking if she wanted to go and see her.

The heroic and commendable employees then took her to safety and informed door staff and the police, who dealt with the man appropriately.

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: “A massive well done to Colchester bar staff on New Year’s Eve.

“A young woman was helped to safety by bar staff after using the Ask Angela project.

“Unfortunately we can’t specifically thank this bar/ club; however you know who you are, thank you so much for helping this young woman.”