Taxi trouble in village (From Free Press Series)

Taxi trouble in village

THE problem of unlicensed taxis operating in Raglan is being stamped on before it gets out of control.

John Bowen, owner of Jay-Bee Taxis, who are licensed to pick up customers from anywhere within Monmouthshire, spotted an unauthorised vehicle trying to pick up a fare in the village on March 20.

Mr Bowen reported the incident to the relevant authorities and even though the fare didn't take place, he said: "It is the first time I have seen an unlicensed vehicle attempting to pick up a fare in the village.

"The customer is put in a dangerous situation as nobody knows who the driver might be and how safe they are.

"The county operates a Cab Safe scheme to which all licensed drivers adhere to."

Chris Rann, the licensing officer at Monmouthshire County Council, said: "When the driver of an unlicensed vehicle picks up a fare for an agreed fee this automatically makes his insurance invalid.

"All taxi cabs, both Hackney carriage and private hire vehicles, are subjected to a rigorous inspection, far greater than an ordinary MOT, and drivers are also required to carry and display their own personal identification."

Raglan Community Councillor Marjorie Chilcott said: "The County Council have agreed to monitor the situation in the village.

"As the village does not have any taxi ranks, it is reassuring to know that a local resident does operate a licensed taxi cab and we can call on him anytime.

"However, my main concern is that if we don't act now we are leaving the door open for an accident or tragedy to happen."

Mr Rann added: "If anybody spots an unlicensed vehicle being used as a taxi we need help in securing a prosecution.

"We require the vehicle number, the time of the incident and for the witness to contact the police as soon as possible.

"The Cab Safe scheme is in operation for the public's protection and the scheme helps us eliminate unlicensed cabs."