A TAXI proprietor is warning that lives are being put at risk by people targeting his vehicles and allegedly tampering with brakes and tyres.

Tony Marshall established his firm Tony’s Taxis, Craig n’ Dale Enterprises, near Catterick Garrison, over the past seven years, and currently has five vehicles.

He says he is extremely proud of the company and of the area but has become increasingly concerned that his vehicles are being targeted.

He said: "Over the last three years all of my vehicles have suffered levels of deliberate sabotage, way above that of the odd flat tyre.

"We have had engine oil drained, fuel pipes disconnected, grit in the fuel tank, glass under new tyres, suspension bolts loosened, gearbox oil drained and screws drilled into tyre sidewalls, the latest incident just a month ago.

“As far as I’m concerned, this is tantamount to deliberate attempted manslaughter, and I and my family will pursue a custodial sentence for those involved, should we catch the perpetrators.“

Mr Marshall who runs the company with his wife Gill and family has installed 360 degree CCTV cameras on their site at Brough with St Giles, which he hopes will help him catch whoever is targeting the firm.

He warned whoever was carrying out the attacks needed to think that it could be their own family who could be caught up in any possible incident if a tyre blew out, or brakes failed.

He added:“It may result in injury, maiming or even death. My family and I wonder if you will be able to live with your actions?”

Mr Marshall has reported the incidents to the police, but says he is determined they will not affect his business and have made him more determined to carry on and succeed.

Last year they were presented with the Vendor of The Year Award by the American led Propharma Group, who have an operation at nearby Gilling West.

“Visitors and residents alike deserve a quality experience in a Taxi or Private Hire vehicle every time they are transported. We live in a beautiful part of the world and we want more people to come and visit us here.

"As Taxi and Private Hire drivers and operators, we have a wonderful opportunity to showcase our area and encourage their return. That’s what we want to work towards.”