Private Hire Driver Prosecuted, After Being Caught Using His Suspended Private Hire Vehicle.

Junaid Yaqoob of Green Keepers Road, Great Denham, pleaded guilty to using an unlicensed vehicle and driving without insurance on three occasions in November 2017. 

He was fined £211 and £635 respectively. He was also given six DVLA penalty points and ordered to pay costs of £900 with a victim surcharge of £63.

At the time of the offences his vehicle was operated by taxi firm Speedline.

Milton Keynes Magistrates Court heard that an MK Council taxi patrol officer was on duty at the CMK train station on November 29 when he conducted a compliance check on Mr Yaqoob’s vehicle. 

He noted the brake light was not working and issued a written notice suspending the vehicle for use as a private hire vehicle. 

Mr Yaqoob was advised that the vehicle could no longer be used to provide private hire services until the defect was repaired and then presented to South Northants Council who would inspect the vehicle and lift the suspension.

Later that day the patrol officer saw Mr Yaqoob’s vehicle again at CMK train station and noted the defective brake light had not been repaired.

The patrol officer then obtained booking records from operator Speedline who confirmed that Mr Yaqoob’s vehicle had completed three private hire bookings after the patrol officer had suspended his vehicle.

A spokesman for MK Council, said: “I would like to commend our taxi patrol officer for his vigilant work and taking the appropriate action. 

"This result will hopefully send a strong message to all drivers who want to ignore council officers as they will be caught and prosecuted.”

Shame London PCO's aren't as vigilant and up to this standard and no longer patrol the WestEnd and City. Apparently they only respond to what they are calling intelligence led compliance. But this Intelligence led compliance is shrouded in secrecy. 

Another reason why all meeting with TfL need to be minuted, especially compliance!!!

As complaints are made nightly about Private Hire vehicles parking on the busy working ranks at Shepherds Bush, Hakkasan and Nobu's....we can only assume they are not taking any notice of 'our' intelligence. 

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Chinese taxi driver falls asleep at the wheel for nearly a minute before crashing

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A taxi driver in China was caught on camera falling asleep at the wheel for nearly a minute whilst driving on a high speed motorway.

The driver, known as He, was reportedly finishing his late shift when he started to drift off. His company has sacked him after viewing the footage which shows Mr He waking up after his vehicle went off road crashing into road barriers.

Fatigue driving is the number one cause of traffic accidents and road fatalities in China, according to reports based on the figures released by Chinese transport authorities. According to local reports over 90,000 people are killed every year in China due to accidents relating to driving fatigued.

August 04, 2018 at 12:03PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Straight to South Beach: Direct Miami flights from £272rtn with American Airlines

Pirates we've spotted some sun-sational prices on direct flights to Miami with American Airlines! There is tons of availability throughout autumn, winter and even spring 2019. So if you're looking to get your 2019 holidays organised, book early and secure a true bargain! Find options between September 2018 and March 2019 below. Flights depart from… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Police appeal for help after men smash up Scarborough taxi with stick

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North Yorkshire Police is appealing for witnesses and information about criminal damage caused by passengers to a taxi at West Ayton, Scarborough.It happened on the A170 between 11.30pm hours and midnight on 11 July 2018. A local Nippy taxi picked up a fare containing two men from the Byways public Inn, Crossgates, Scarborough, and headed to West Ayton.While in West Ayton and near to the Forge Valley Inn, the men exited the vehicle where one of the men picked up a stick and hit the taxi, smashing the windscreen and damaging the door pillar.Both men were described as aged 25 to 30 years old, 5ft 10in tall and well-built.North Yorkshire Police are requesting the public’s assistance to help establish the identity of the men.Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, option 2, and ask for Chris Hunter. Or email chris.hunter@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

(Image: Google Maps)

August 04, 2018 at 11:24AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Those views tho: 5* Shangri-La at The Shard in London stay - from £191pp

Ahoy mateys! How about waking up among the clouds (well, more or less) sleeping in London's tallest building, the impressive, shining glass beacon that is The Shard?! We found some good rates over at the iconic 5* Shangri-La hotel at The Shard in the heart of East London offering superlative views, a 52nd floor Skypool… Cee POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

All inclusive on the Red Sea from £356pp: 7nt Egypt resort - incl. flights, bags & transfers

Fancy a winter break in sunny climates? Egypt is a great option to guarantee sunshine and we've discovered a great value all inclusive holiday -- everything from flights, bags, transfers, meals and drinks -- from as little as £356 per person, based on 2 sharing. It's available from London or Birmingham and it's cheapest in… Niamh_UK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Manchester private hire driver cleared of sexually assaulting passenger

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A private hire driver has been cleared of any wrongdoing following accusations of sexually assaulting a passenger. The driver working for Cresta Cars named as Tariq Ali, 54, denied three counts of sexual assault and was today found not guilty by a jury at Manchester Crown Court.Mr Ali told the court that the woman was making up the allegations of sexual assault in his taxi after being picked up at her home address. The female complainant, who can’t be named, was being taken to North Manchester General Hospital for an appointment.

Mr Ali told police it was the woman who initiated contact and that he declined her offer saying it was the woman who “tried it on with him.”

August 03, 2018 at 09:14PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Round the world flights: See Iceland, LA, Hawaii, Singapore & more from £583rtn

Get your Fri-YAY evening off to a flying start with these incredible round the world flights that we have put together for you. Visiting a number of incredible destinations around the globe, cross 5 countries off your bucket list in one go! Visit Iceland, LA, Hawaii, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore before returning home with… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Va-Va-Venice: 5* Hilton getaway 2nts from £166pp - incl. flights & iconic hotel w/ spa

Ahoy mateys! We've spotted some phenomenal rates over at the iconic, top-rated 5* Hilton Molino Stucky Venice in what is arguably THE most romantic city of the world - Venice! Here you will be spoilt with first class facilities, including 7 restaurants and bars (one of which on the rooftop with panoramic views of the… Cee POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Delightful Devon: Dreamhut retreat 2nt group stay from £80pp - hot tub, pizza oven & sauna use

Ahoy there pirates, check this out, we have found these super cute accommodations called Dreamhuts Retreat in delightful Devon. There are 2 huts you can choose from, one 'Shepard's Rest' sleeps up to 4 and the other 'Shepard's Bliss' which can host a couple. Whichever you stay in you will have access to a private… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

A real Malteaser: 4nts in winter from £108pp incl. flights & 4* hotel - spring dates from £208pp

Ahoy Pirates, dismiss the the winter blues and ditch the festive stress with a with a cheeky 4 night trip to the historical island of Malta this December. Temperatures are in the high teens at this time of year - much more favourable than those of the UK! However, if you're looking for a springtime… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Wearing Flip Flops while driving a Taxi could lead to a careless driving charge

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Highway Code Rule 97; you should ensure that clothing and footwear do not prevent you using the controls in the correct manner.

While most drivers wear safe and suitable driving footwear, some Taxi drivers choose to let it all hang out (that's your toes) by sporting a pair of Southend Beaches finest flip flops (other beaches are available), and although it is not deemed directly illegal to drive while wearing a toe thong, if caught up in an accident, you could find yourself being charged with driving without due care and attention.

All clothing from head to ten toes (some people may have more or less) must be chosen with road safety in mind.

Loose fitting footwear like flip flops can cause some major problems when trying to maintain complete control of your vehicle.

You could find your flip flops slipping off or wedged beneath your pedals preventing you from braking correctly or in time to avoid a collision.

If you are involved in a collision which the police feel could've been avoided if you were wearing more suitable footwear you could find yourself being charged, receiving fines of up to £5000 and 9 points added to your licence.

We all want to stay cool during the summer but it's best advised to consider more suitable footwear whilst driving around town, and let's face it , who's more likely to win a race to the toilets before they wet themselves - - the one wearing beach flip flops or the one wearing socks with sandals? Exactly.

August 03, 2018 at 05:02PM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Life's a beach in Fuerteventura: 6nts B&B in spring 2019 from £494pp incl. flights & hotel

Get your 2019 spring escape in the bag now Pirates and catch yourself an early bird deal. Like this stunning 6 night escape to the Canary island, Fuerteventura. Relax next May at the 4* Sol Beach House, an adults only beach front accommodation with a super stylish interior. Breakfast is included in this prices, but… GemUK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Vegas baby: 5* Luxury Suite holiday at The Venetian from £625pp - 5nt stay + direct flights

Live like a high roller, on a pirates budget at one of the Top 15 hotels in Las Vegas; we've found a holiday at the ultra-luxury 5* The Venetian available from as little as £625 per person, based on 2 sharing, for 5 nights in a Luxury Suite and direct flights from London Cheapest dates… Niamh_UK POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Oh oh Ohio: Flights to Cleveland from £271 return

Pirates, fancy heading to Cleveland in Ohio in the United States, we have come across these great flights for under £300 return. There are a range of dates to choose from spanning September and October, you could even use the flights to see a bit more of the country. Use our flights finder for more… Lola POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

7nts in Cyprus this autumn from £229pp - incl. 4* hotel & flights

Pirates, get yourselves a late season treat with 7 nights of island living in gorgeous Cyprus! Our Holiday Finder is offering fine prices on stays at Club Coral View Resort, a 4* property that enjoys great views over the Med. Flights are included from a variety of UK airports. The cheapest options depart in late-September,… Samcana POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

5* Kos family half board holiday 7nts from £381pp - incl. hotel & flights

Ahoy mateys! The top-rated Michelangelo Resort & Spa in Kos boasts a gorgeous infinity pool scene with a selection of pools to choose from overlooking the stunning blue Aegan Sea. There are in total 2 restaurants, 3 bars and a library lounge here and you've got half board included in your stay. What's more, even… Cee POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

What Have Demos Ever Won Part Two : DDD The Straw That Broke The Camels Back ?

After seeing the Flash Demo outside the Spanish embassy in Belgravia, Spanish taxi authorities end Uber strike after licence limits agreed. 

Spanish taxi drivers ended a six-day strike late on Wednesday after the government agreed to set tough limits on licences for online ride-hailing companies including Uber, the latest setback for a company that has faced protests in many countries.

Thousands of taxi drivers across the country had blocked major city streets with their cabs in protest against competition they say works under less restrictive regulations that make it impossible for them to compete.

The government agreed to pass new regulations in September guaranteeing a cap on licences for Uber and similar services at a ratio of just one permit for every 30 taxi permits.

A representative of the ride-hailing services said some taxi drivers had attacked its members during the strike. Spain's taxi association said it condemned all violence.

Ride-hailing services, which offer rides that undercut taxi prices online rather than being hailed in the street, have become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years.

Backed by investors including Goldman Sachs and BlackRock and valued at more than $70 billion (£53.4 billion), Uber views Western Europe as an increasingly important market.

It has pulled out of China, Russia and Southeast Asia, and its future in India, where it is battling local rival Ola, is in question.

London cab drivers are considering bringing a class action suit against Uber after the mobile app was granted a temporary licence renewal to operate in the British capital.

The explosive growth of for-hire vehicles in New York and a rise in suicides by yellow taxi drivers struggling to compete has prompted the municipality to consider capping the services, the first such restriction in the country.

If the new regulation in Spain is not fully enforced by September, taxis would strike again, National Taxi Association president Julio Sanz said in a statement.

The legislation would prompt the layoff of thousands of drivers from Uber and ride-hailing rival Cabify as they currently have 9,000 permits compared with 70,000 for taxis, far from the 30:1 ratio agreed with unions.

The ride-hailing services reported a significant number of attacks against their members by taxi drivers during the strike.

There were "very serious incidents including cars being stoned, cars overturned, gun shots and a great number of drivers treated for stress and bruises," their representative Eduardo Martin said.

The taxi association said its representatives condemned all aggression and violence, and urged members to keep all protests peaceful.

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Four in five people doubt speed camera effectiveness

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Eighty-three per cent of people doubt the effectiveness of speed cameras because they think drivers only slow down when they pass a device before putting their foot down again.

There also remains a wide held belief that the cameras are there to raise money with 57% of British adults seeing them as revenue generators.And 50% of people believe they do not effectively discourage motorists from offending.Men and older members of the public are those who are most likely to hold negative views towards automated enforcement in general.More than half of people (53%) say there is now a speed camera within ten minutes’ drive of their homes, with Londoners most likely to say there is one close by.The findings come from a survey carried out for the RAC Foundation by Ipsos MORI. The participants were 2,203 members of the Ipsos MORI online panel aged between 16 and 75.Despite concerns about the effectiveness of speed cameras the survey also reveals that there is support for automated road traffic enforcement if it is used for the right reasons.Seventy per cent of people back automated enforcement – be it through the use of fixed speed cameras, average speed cameras, mobile speed cameras, bus lane cameras, red light cameras or box junction cameras – if it leads to a decline in death and injury on the roads.Almost as many people (66%) support the use of technology, such as speed cameras, if it frees up more time for police to deal with other offences.The key to increasing public confidence in automated enforcement could be through greater transparency.More than half (56%) of people believe there would be greater confidence in automated enforcement if there was data published about it, while 54% thought an annual review should be published to increase acceptability.Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said:“This survey reveals that we are broadly tolerant of living in a surveillance society with two thirds of those questioned agreeing that camera-based monitoring is more of a force for good in society than for bad.“But when it comes to monitoring of behaviour on the roads we continue to have a complex relationship with cameras.“There remains a suspicion amongst many that the rationale for some cameras is to raise revenue rather than cut congestion or make our roads safer.“We believe the best way to tackle the scepticism about camera deployment is to ensure the data relating to their use is captured comprehensively and published openly so that the relevant authorities, and motorists themselves, can be informed by having the facts speak for themselves.”Previous research by the RAC Foundation found that in 2016, 2.2 million speeding offences were detected in England and Wales.In 2017, 1.2 million drivers attended a speed awareness course.

August 03, 2018 at 11:30AM https://ift.tt/2ufVjKI THESE POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT

Early bird 2019: 4* Costa Dorada half board holiday 7nts from £365pp - incl. flights & hotel

Arrr early-birds! Next up we are sending you to sunny Costa Dorada. You'll be staying at the 4* Palas Pineda Hotel in a lovely beachfront setting just a short walk to the water and with several pools and a spa at your disposal. This deal is for 2019 with a lot of availability spanning April… Cee POSTS ARE NOT OUR ENDORSEMENT