HUNDREDS of taxi drivers turned out to say goodbye to the founder of one of Darlington's biggest cab companies yesterday.

Shaun Bainbridge helped set up 1AB Taxis in 1984. He died last Friday, aged 47, after losing his battle with cancer. He had been in the taxi trade for 25 years.

He fought the disease for six months, and passed away in Germany, where he was being treated.

Yesterday, a memorial service was held to celebrate Mr Bainbridge's life at St Augustine's Church, in Coniscliffe Road, Darlington. It is estimated 500 people attended, including many of the town's cabbies.

Ann Barnes, secretary at 1AB, said: "It was a lovely service and the hall was full - it was a great turnout."