A TAXI driver has been fined following a council crackdown on unlicensed drivers.

The driver, who was licensed by Richmondshire District Council, was prosecuted by Hambleton District Council for taking fare paying passengers in its district.

And the council has warned that action will continue to be taken against unlicensed taxis operating in the Northallerton area, particularly late at night on weekends.

In the early hours of April 14 this year the prosecuted driver took five passengers from Northallerton High Street to Thornton-Le-Moor despite not having a licence to undertake the fare.

He was convicted at Harrogate Magistrates Court this month and ordered to pay a total of £882 after pleading guilty to the offence.

Councillor Ron Kirk, chairman of the licensing committee said: “The primary purpose of the licensing regime is to protect the public. All drivers and vehicles licensed by us are subject to extensive testing in order to ensure the safety of the travelling public.

“The council is committed to taking appropriate action against anyone found to be flouting the law. Our officers will continue to work with the relevant authorities to ensure that any unlicensed drivers are subject to appropriate enforcement action."