PARTYGOERS are urged to make sure the taxis they use are trustworthy as the festive season approaches.

West Dorset District Council (WDDC) is reminding local people to ensure that any taxi they get into is licensed by WDDC or another local council.

District council leader, Robert Gould, said: “Lots of Christmas parties are coming up and with New Year’s Eve and other events happening, a lot of people will be going out to enjoy themselves in West Dorset.

“Although there isn’t a historic problem in the area, getting in an unlicensed cab is a real gamble.

“You don’t know if the car is roadworthy or if the driver is trustworthy, let alone insured to carry passengers. If it isn’t licensed then don’t get in.”

Properly licensed West Dorset Hackney Carriages and private hire vehicles have plates attached to the back and a vehicle plate number clearly displayed on the windscreen.

Plates include the district council’s distinctive sea wyvern logo and other details including the vehicle registration number and licence expiry date.

Drivers are also required to wear or clearly display photo identification cards with similar details.

Environmental health officers from the council are also busy with food hygiene and safety inspections at all licensed pubs and restaurants to make sure that people who eat out have a pleasant time.

West Dorset residents and visitors can check local establishments’ food health and safety ratings by using the district council’s ‘Scores on the Doors’ facility at dorsetforyou.com/scoreson thedoors.

Anyone with concerns or who wants to apply for a licence should contact district licensing team on 01305 252215 or email licensing@westdorset-dc.gov.uk