Warning over illegal taxi drivers

Illegal taxi drivers are being targeted in Dorset following a successful prosecution.

A Christchurch hackney cab driver was caught illegally operating in Bournemouth and fined £375 plus £185 costs when he appeared at court.

He was caught in a check by licensing officers who found him trading in the town while only holding a licence to operate in Christchurch.

Councillors said they were "committed" to prosecuting offenders.

Councillor Andrew Morgan, chair of the licensing board, said: "We are determined to make sure that only properly licensed drivers operate in Bournemouth.

"This case shows how committed we are to passenger safety and sends out a signal that drivers not licensed to operate in Bournemouth as a taxi or private hire vehicle should stay away."