A private hire driver has been fined for touting for business in Cheltenham during Gold Cup week.
Boubacar Diallo, was ordered by the town’s Magistrates’ Court to pay a total of £718.50 in fines and costs, after he was convicted of plying for
hire.
The court heard that Diallo, from James Street, Gloucester, picked up two members of the public who had earlier been seen unsuccessfully attempting to flag down a legitimately licensed taxi. The incidents were witnessed by officers from Cheltenham Borough Council, who brought the prosecution.
Private hire drivers are only allowed to carry pre-booked passengers; they are not allowed to pick up customers from the street. Only Hackney carriage drivers can do that.
Cabinet member for development and safety, Andy McKinlay, said: “Drivers and vehicles not licensed by the council do put public protection and safety at risk.
“People must make sure they only get into a Cheltenham Borough Council licensed vehicle and that the journey is properly booked and recorded.”
Louis Krog, licensing and business support team leader, added: “This successful prosecution should send out a message that the council will deal with out-of-town drivers that illegally ply for hire, not least because of the risk this poses to public safety but also we need to protect the interest of the local trade during this very busy week.”
Read more: http://www.gloucestershireecho.co.uk
