Wheel clampers to be taught how to be nice

They ply of one of Britain's most unpopular trades - but now wheel clampers can gain a qualification in being nice to the public.

The award promises to teach immobilisation operatives, as those who qualify will be able to describe themselves, the skills to "handle situations where conflict might arise".

With a reputation for targeting charity minibuses, on-duty police cars and even motorists performing three-point turns, it is not hard to imagine why these social skills might be useful.

On the syllabus of the 30-hour training course will be conflict management and communication skills. The qualification will also cover the "roles and responsibilities of the operative" - clamping cars and issuing fines, in other words.

It is designed to "raise the standards and professionalism of private security industry staff working in areas where public safety is paramount", according to Edexel, the awarding body - which also offers a new award in door supervision, intended to polish the image of the club bouncer.

Clampers have joined traffic wardens at the top of the British motorists' list of irritants. One firm even clamped a van belonging to a dead man - and then refused to waive the £350 fee.