TAXI drivers have described a council rule which requires new cars to be tested for public safety as "ludicrous".

Darlington Borough Council requires every licensed taxi to undergo a test by the Vehicle Inspectorate every six months, at a cost to the drivers of £40 plus Vat each time.

Tony Burt had to get his new Hyundai taxi tested, even though it was only 12 days old and had less than 200 miles on the clock.

George Jenkinson, who operates from the Market Square rank, must also pay for a test for his three-month-old car.

Mr Jenkinson said: "It's not right that a brand spanking new car should have to be tested, it's ludicrous. I don't see why I should have to spend money like this - it's just throwing money down the drain. It's like they are challenging every make of vehicle under the sun and saying they shouldn't be on the road."

Mr Burt said: "Even the guys inspecting my car were chuckling to themselves for having to test a new vehicle."

But Barry Pearson, the council's commercial and licensing manager, said: "The council requires all vehicles are tested before they are licensed, even if the vehicle is brand new. Things have been done to it to make it a taxi. There is a requirement for a fire extinguisher, a spare wheel, a jack for changing the wheel and the other factor is that although a vehicle is new it may not be entirely safe, and we feel it is appropriate that checks are made."