Warning issued over bogus taxi drivers

Reports of a number of bogus taxi drivers operating across the district - just as the need for cabbies heightens during the festive period - has sparked a warning from the council.

There have been several incidents involving people ordering taxis in the area, only for an unlicensed driver to turn up and offer their service.

One case would have involved a lengthy trip to a London airport for an unwitting passenger, but luckily, the real taxi arrived just in time.

As a result of the recent nearmisses, the city council has issued guidelines for people to look out for before setting foot in a taxi.

The authority advises checking a driver’s badge or licence, which must be displayed at all times.

All licensed taxis must also display a small plastic plate in the front of the vehicle showing the number plate, a large plate on the rear of the vehicle with the Canterbury City Council’s logo on it and three smaller plates in the windows.

The council, which is working closely with police on the issue, has reassured customers that all of its officially licensed drivers are DBS checked.

Anyone who thinks they are in a taxi with a fraudster is urged to call 999.

If an unlicensed cab arrives to pick you up, you can report it to police on 101 or email licensing. enforcement@canterbury.gov. uk.