A CRACKDOWN on faulty taxis in Rossendale saw all but one issued with notices to make improvements.

Four of the seven hackney carriages stopped were issued with an immediate prohibition notice for faults inclduing a loose battery, bare wires running over the radiator and fuel pipe, bald tyres, a diesel leak and defective brake and tail lights.

Another two were issued defect notices by Rossendale Council for having a split C/V joint gaiter, body damage to a passenger door and absent ‘No Smoking’ stickers.

The crackdown, known as Operation Maestro, was a jointly deployed by the council’s licensing and enforcement unit, Lancashire Police and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA).

Councillor Christine Gill, Chair of the Licensing Committee said “There is no excuse for defective tyres and lights or loose batteries and bare wires.

“Taxi drivers are professional drivers and as such they should be carrying out basic checks before, during and at the end of each shift to ensure passenger safety.

“The council will continue to conduct these inspections regularly. Licensed taxis are regularly tested and further taxi inspections are scheduled to take place throughout the year.”