CHRISTMAS revellers are being warned about bogus taxi drivers operating in Darlington over the festive season.

Darlington Borough Council is encouraging people to take taxis if they are drinking, but has spoken out about the potential dangers of unlicensed taxis.

The council has also called on people to report bogus taxi drivers, who often wait outside night-clubs to pick up fares.

Barry Pearson, the commercial and licensing manager at the council, said: "It is important that the public uses licensed vehicles for their safety and peace of mind.

"The driver of an unlicensed vehicle is committing a criminal offence and, additionally, will not be insured to carry fare-paying passengers.

"In the event of an accident and injury to passengers, there would be great difficulty in obtaining any compensation."

Taxis licensed by the council undergo safety checks and the drivers must be deemed fit to carry passengers.

Driver Simon Claydon said: "Every year we hear reports of bogus taxis, especially coming up to the festive season. Unfortunately, there are those who wish to make a few bob on the side by posing as a taxi driver.

"Bogus taxis pose a threat to vulnerable people travelling home at night, such as lone females."

Licensed Hackney taxis working in Darlington can pick up passengers on the street and are easily identified.

They are red with an illuminated roof sign and have an identification plate on the rear of the vehicle showing a unique taxi number.

This number is repeated on the side of the car alongside the council's logo.

Licensed private hire vehicles, which cannot pick up from the street and must be booked in advance, can be any colour and have a white plate on the back of the car and the company's name on the side.

As well as calling on people to stay safe, Mr Pearson is appealing for information about unlicensed taxis.

He said: "We often get reports of taxis working without a licence but to do anything, we must have details about the offenders.

"If you see a suspicious taxi driver, remember as much as you can about the vehicle and give us a call."

Anyone with information is asked to call (01325) 388582.