CAMPAIGNING taxi-driver George Jenkinson is urging the Government to lay down guidelines after he triumphed over council bosses in a dispute.

Mr Jenkinson had threatened to sue Darlington Borough Council earlier this year after he was refused a licence for his Hackney carriage because it was the wrong shade of red.

The 56-year-old defeated the authority in court last year after he was told to stop advertising on his maroon vehicle.

The Northern Echo reported yesterday how he won the latest battle, with council chiefs agreeing to settle out of court and grant Mr Jenkinson's licence, as well as pay his legal fees.

Mr Jenkinson said he would be taking the matter further, seeking compensation from the council and asking the Department of Transport to issue guidelines to all local authorities.

He said: "Maybe it is time there were Government guidelines for all councils.

"It would be better if all taxis came under one umbrella. This Government does not realise that we are providing a public service."

In the wake of Mr Jenkinson's success, Darlington council has agreed to carry out a consultation with taxi-drivers on its current policy to only license bright red vehicles.

Regulations on colour are decided by councils, but Mr Jenkinson wants the Government to intervene and set the rules.