TWO of the longest established taxi companies in Darlington have come together to become the largest operator in the borough.

The deal, which comes into effect on Thursday, sees ABC Taxis and 1AB Taxis amalgamate.

It means that 1AB will now operate more than 100 vehicles across Darlington borough and expect to serve about 90,000 customers each month.

Chris Bainbridge, a director of 1AB, says the deal is a "full circle" for the companies as he explained that ABC first formed in the town in 1973 with 1AB setting up sometime later.

Since then the firms have been friendly rivals in the Darlington area but now the companies are back together once more. The directors of ABC, Stuart and Christopher Mason, will be joining 1AB as directors and shareholders.

Mr Bainbridge said: “Obviously we are increasing and looking to expand from a business perspective and on improving the service offer.”

The company will operate from offices in Telford House on Green Street, Darlington, and is expanding to cover Durham.

They offer a 24-hour online booking service and also have a fleet of minibuses available for hire.

Mr Bainbridge said that the merger benefited both firms.