Newark and Sherwood District Council have reminded party-goers to only use taxis licensed by the district this festive season.

Christmas revellers are being to urged to check that they only take licensed taxis this festive season. 

Throughout Newark and Sherwood all hackney carriage and private hire vehicles will be licensed by the district council. 

All vehicles must display a district council plate in the window, a small disc on the windscreen and larger display signs at either side of the vehicle. 

Licensed taxi drivers undergo a series of enquiries and checks including an enhanced CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check, professional drivers’ medical, driving ability, local knowledge and Highway Code tests. 

Checks are carried out on vehicles twice a year by district council mechanics to ensure they meet a standard higher than an MOT. Vehicle insurance and registration documents are also checked. 

Newark and Sherwood District Council licensing committee chairman Rita Crowe said: “Licensed taxis are always easy to spot as they have a number of stickers and plates on from the district council. As more people tend to go out in the run up to Christmas and new year we would advise anyone needing a taxi to check the one they use is licensed.” 

An unlicensed taxi is operating illegally. If anyone spots an unlicensed taxi, or an out of district taxi plying for hire they should contact Newark and Sherwood District Council’s licensing enforcement officers on (01636) 655296.