Football fans venturing out to watch the World Cup are being urged to travel only in licensed vehicles when taking taxis.
Hartlepool Borough Council is warning that unlicensed drivers may try to cash in on the extra trade likely to be generated by people visiting local pubs for matches, particularly England games.
Councillor Adam Gaines, Chair of the Licensing Committee, said: "Major sporting events bring thousands of people into the town, and we want everyone to enjoy the atmosphere safely.
"When you choose a licensed taxi, you know the driver has been vetted, the vehicle has been inspected, and the appropriate insurance is in place. Those important safeguards will not exist if you travel with an unlicensed driver.
"If you're celebrating after the match, please make sure your journey home is with a licensed taxi."
The Council has issued the following advice to help people be sure that a taxi is properly licensed:
- When flagging down a taxi it must be yellow in colour and clearly marked with a licence number. All drivers must carry an identity badge bearing the Council’s logo.
- If a taxi hasn’t been pre-booked, use an approved rank - there are many of these across the town centre.
- When booking, ensure it is with a reputable licensed operator. The vehicle does not have to be yellow but must still be clearly marked with its licence number and a plate bearing details of the licence. The driver must have an identity badge bearing the Council’s logo.
- Hackney carriages (yellow taxis) should have their tariff sheet clearly displayed within the vehicle.
Concerns about unlicensed taxi drivers or unlicensed vehicles can be passed to the Council by emailing licensing@hartlepool.gov.uk or calling (01429) 523354. For more information go to www.hartlepool.gov.uk/licences-permits/taxi-driver-vehicle-comments-complaints