FESTIVE revellers in Pendle are being warned to be on the look-out for rogue taxi drivers touting for trade.

Pendle Council said during the busy Christmas period there was an increase in people posing as cabbies or licensed drivers illegally trying to pick up customers.

Now in an attempt to drive bogus cabbies off the road the council is warning partygoers to check drivers' credentials before accepting a lift.

Coun Marjorie Adams, chairman of the council's taxi licensing committee said: "Before you get into the car, make sure the driver is licensed - all licensed drivers must wear a badge with their photograph and licence number, regardless of whether they are Hackney Carriages or private hire.

"Never, risk your life by getting into an unlicensed taxi - they won't have had any safety checks and may not even be insured.

The council is also informing people about the differences between Hackney Carriage and private hire cabs.

Pendle's Hackney Carriages, are red cars or black London-style cabs and can be flagged in the street or hired from the rank. They are only entitled to charge what is set on the meter..

Private hire vehicles are any colour and must be pre-booked and the fare agreed before you set off.

Coun Adams added: "If you come across any bogus taxi drivers, telephone taxi enforcement officer, Imtiaz Ahmed on 01282 661 638."