THE part-owner of a Rossendale taxi business has been fined for driving a cab without a licence.

Asif Hussain, 35, of Arrows Taxis, Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, was found to be driving a hackney carriage last year.

Rawtenstall magistrates heard that in November 2006 Hussain had had his licence revoked by the council's licensing committee for insurance offences.

But he was spotted behind the wheel in November. He was fined £500 and ordered to pay £650 in costs.

A council spokesperson said: "We would urge people who use taxis in Rossendale to make a visible check that a taxi is licensed before they get in one.

"They can do this by checking there is a sign on the roof, stickers on the doors and plates on the front and back of the vehicle."

If someone thinks that a taxi or taxi driver may not be licensed they should call the Licensing Unit on 01706 232 577.