Revellers urged to use licensed taxis

Christmas revellers in Wakefield are being urged to avoid bogus cabs and ensure they only use licensed hackney carriages or private hire vehicles.

Yesterday Wakefield Council and the police joined forces to warn people not to get in a vehicle if they have any doubts.

Insp Richard Close, of Wakefield District Police, said: “With the festive season upon us, more people tend to hit the towns and city centres to celebrate. While we want people to go out and have fun, we urge them to be responsible and not make themselves vulnerable by getting into an unlicensed taxi.

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“It is vital that people look out for bogus taxi drivers and ensure that, when they do take a taxi, it is either pre-booked or is from a recognised rank.”

Drivers of all 1,700 licensed taxis in Wakefield district wear a badge to prove they are licensed. Hackney carriages can be hailed on the street and carry a licence plate with a white background. Private hire vehicles have to be pre-booked and carry a plate with a yellow background.

Throughout the festive period licensing enforcement officers and will be out and about to clamp down on any unlicensed taxis operating in the district.