Text a Taxi Today and You'll be Safe
23th August 2008
Police have praised a new text-messaging service launched by a Cheltenham taxi firm to combat bogus drivers.
Starline Taxis has spent £40,000 upgrading its fleet to ensure a safe end to nights out.
The money has been spent on installing a new computer system inside each cab, which allows the texting service to do the work.
Users pre-register their details online, along with a list of up to 10 locations, attaching a keyword to each. Whenever they need a lift, they simply text Starline using the keyword.
A text is then sent to the customer both when the taxi is dispatched and upon its arrival. The message includes the description and registration number of the vehicle, aiding the fight against illegal cabs.
Managing director Rob Bates said: "Unlicensed cabs can be extremely dangerous.
"By making it simple to order a taxi, we're reducing the temptation to jump into an illegal cab at the end of a long night. Our text messages will also mean people are less likely to get into a bogus cab unwittingly."
Bogus taxis are unlicensed and uninsured and drivers are not police checked.
Cheltenham Police Inspector Paul Cruise said: "Cheltenham is lucky enough to have a vibrant nightlife and we are seeing a significant reduction in the amount of night time crime in the town centre. Initiatives such as this, which keep people from waiting in public areas, can help us reduce the amount of anti-social behaviour and disruption to residents in the area."
Coun Duncan Smith, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council (C, Charlton Kings), said: "This is a sensible, positive move. I hope more firms will take such a responsible attitude towards similar issues."
The taxi firm hopes customers will sign up for the initiative in the coming weeks.
To register with Starline, log on to
www.starline-taxis.co.uk
Source; thisisgloucestershire.co.uk
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