Last chance for cabbie who 'abused passengers'

The driver was also accused of smoking in his vehicle, which is banned under current legislation, and was called to appear before a licensing hearing to determine whether he was a "fit and proper" person to continue in the profession, and after hearing evidence the board decided on the final warning.

Vehicle inspectors also interviewed six drivers under caution because of the serious nature of faults found with their vehicles.

All the examinations had been carried out as a result of tip-offs from the public and all were issued with formal cautions as a result.

The incidents have been highlighted as results of the work done by regulatory enforcement officers in the town, who operate in different ways to ensure taxi and private hire drivers do not break the rules.

Some checks are carried out on an ad hoc basis, but others are done as a result of complaints made to the council or during larger enforcement operations involving other agencies like police, councils and customs officials.

The council still has some investigations ongoing and others waiting to be heard at court.

They include a businessman who is at the centre of an investigation into allegations that he allowed unlicensed vehicles to be used for private hire work by unlicensed drivers.

At least one man has been banned from driving as a result of breaking the licensing laws.

In addition to vehicle checks at the council's Smithies depot and

checks on working vehicles, enforcement officers have started education work at events such as Penistone Show to publicise their work.