Party-goers warned about bogus taxis

Darlington Borough Council is encouraging people to take taxis if they are out drinking but has spoken out about the potential dangers of using unlicensed taxis.

The council has also called on people to report bogus taxis which often wait outside nightclubs to pick up fares.

Barry Pearson, the commercial and licensing manager at the council, said: "The driver of an unlicensed vehicle is committing a criminal offence and additionally will not be insured to carry fare- paying passengers. In the event of an accident and injury to passengers there would be great difficulty in obtaining any compensation."

Cabs licensed by the council undergo safety checks and the drivers must be deemed fit to carry passengers.

Driver Simon Claydon said: "Every year we hear reports of bogus taxis, especially coming up to the festive season. Unfortunately there are those who wish to make a few bob on the side by posing as a taxi by parking outside clubs and pubs.

"Bogus taxis pose a threat to vulnerable people travelling home at night such as lone females."

Licensed Hackney taxis working in Darlington can pick up passengers on the street, and are easily identified.

They are red with an illuminated roof sign and have an identification plate on the back showing a unique taxi number. This number is repeated on the side of the car alongside the council's logo.

Licensed private hire vehicles, which cannot pick up from the street and must be booked in advance, can be any colour and have a white plate on the back of the car and the company's name on the side.

As well as calling on people to stay safe, Mr Pearson is appealing for information about unlicensed taxis.

He said: "We often get reports of taxis working without a licence but to do anything we must have details about the offenders.

"If you see a suspicious taxi driver remember as much as you can about the vehicle and give us a call."

Anyone with information should call (01325) 388582.