Several taxi marshals SUSPENDED amid allegations of pressure being put on customers to tip drivers

Several taxi marshals in Darlington have been temporarily removed from their roles following claims that a passenger was pressured into tipping before being allowed to board a taxi.

The incident, reported between 20 and 22 December, has prompted an internal investigation by the council’s contracted security provider.

The marshals, stationed at the Grange Road taxi rank, are tasked with maintaining order and ensuring public safety, particularly during busy weekend evenings. Their presence aims to deter anti-social behaviour and support passengers waiting for transport home.

The taxi marshal initiative forms part of a broader strategy to enhance safety in the town’s nightlife hotspots. Other measures include the Number Forty safe space on Skinnergate, which offers practical assistance to anyone feeling vulnerable on Friday and Saturday nights. Additionally, an emergency button at the Blackwellgate and Skinnergate junction provides direct access to the town’s CCTV monitoring team, operating around the clock.

The council has not provided further details but emphasised its commitment to ensuring public trust and the integrity of the marshal service. The investigation remains ongoing.

Jim Garner, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “We commission a security company to provide taxi marshals and this behaviour has never been endorsed. The paying of tips is a matter for customers and they should never be made to pay a tip or feel compelled to do so. When the security company was made aware of this incident they immediately informed us and removed the staff from taxi marshal duties whilst they carry out an investigation.”

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