TAXI passengers are being warned to avoid getting into unlicensed cars after a woman was raped by two men.

Cab trade leaders have joined forces with council chiefs and the police to issue the warning as the hunt for the 25-year-old's attacker continues.

The men raped the woman after driving her from Middlesbrough to a deserted farm track at Butterwick, near Sedgefield, early on April 26.

Barry Coppinger, Middlesbrough Council executive member for community safety, said: "The main thing to remember is never to get into a 'pirate' or unlicensed car. These cars have not been safety checked and are driven by unlicensed drivers.

"These vehicles are not insured to carry passengers, and in our experience drivers of theses pirate taxis have included disqualified drivers and drivers with convictions for sex offences.

"People often use taxis after having a drink and are therefore vulnerable to unscrupulous unlicensed drivers who prey on them, overcharge them and, as recent events have shown, may also assault them."

Hackney Association secretary Joe Durkin said: "We welcome any move that will benefit the public's safety, but the council wants to be seen as protecting the public after something serious has happened. We realise it is a difficult job to catch pirate operators but we still think there is more they could do."

All drivers licensed by Middlesbrough Council have been medically checked and vetted, and must wear an identification badges at all times.

A Cleveland Police spokesman said: "We would always urge members of the public to ensure they are using a bona fide taxi firm."

Anyone with information that might help trace the two rapists is asked to contact Newton Aycliffe CID on (01325) 314401, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.