CHRISTMAS revellers are being warned not to put their lives at risk by using unlicensed taxis to get them home after a night out this festive period.

Tonbridge and Malling Council is highlighting the growing number of bogus taxi drivers operating illegally in the area. Chairman of the licensing and appeals committee, Cllr Russell Dorling, said: "There is bound to be increased demand for taxis at this time of year, but people could be putting themselves at risk by getting into these unlicensed vehicles. These taxis are not properly insured and are often unroadworthy. People should also bear in mind that the drivers of these vehicles have not been checked by the Criminal Records Bureau."

Properly licensed vehicles can be easily identified by their Tonbridge and Malling licence plates which are displayed on the rear of the vehicle and on the inside of the windscreen. Some Executive Class taxis have an exemption certificate which allows them to carry their licence plate within the vehicle. The licence plates carry the borough council logo and show details of the make, model and colour of the taxi, as well as the licence expiry date and the number of passengers that can be carried at any one time.

The drivers of licensed vehicles should also be wearing an identity badge that should be clearly visible for inspection. Each badge should show the driver's name and photograph and the badge expiry date.

The borough council's licensing inspector, Chris Tandy, said: "We will continue to investigate anyone suspected of driving an unlicensed taxi and liaise with the police to identify those who continue to flout the licensing laws and put other people's lives in danger."

Anyone who notices a vehicle being used as an unlicensed taxi is asked to report the incident to the licensing inspector by calling 01732 876027.