THERE'S no quicker way to lose the warm glow of a good night out than a cab hunt in the cold and rain. But at this time of year, when the city centre is overrun with Xmas parties, the late night taxi trawl is hard to avoid.

If you're heading into town this Christmas, arm yourself with this free app first

So well done to the Shout A Cab Team for getting their new app ready in time for the Christmas cab rush. It lets you order a black cab using your smartphone or tablet so you can stay safe and warm indoors, rather than searching the streets for an elusive orange light.

And you can watch your taxi's progress to you in real time on screen, meaning no waiting around outside wondering when it's going to turn up.

The Shout A Cab app tells the three nearest cabs to you that you're waiting, and the first one to accept the job is dispatched to you. All the Shout A Cab vehicles are being fitted with CCTV for added security. You can book your taxi in advance or on the spot.

The service covers all of Greater Manchester, so if you're heading out on the town this Christmas, arm yourself with this free app first. At two a.m. when all you want is your bed and pyjamas, you'll be mighty glad that your taxi home is just the touch of a button away.

Download the free Apple app

Download the free Android app