‘Taxi Cop’ helps check out-of-area Wolverhampton licensed taxis in North Somerset and Bristol
- Perry Richardson
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
Taxis and private hire vehicles licensed in Wolverhampton but operating in the South West have been checked by Avon and Somerset Police, working in partnership with Wolverhampton Council.
PC Patrick Quinton, known locally as the ‘Taxi Cop’, confirmed the checks took place across North Somerset and Bristol. Officers were inspecting vehicles for compliance with taxi and private hire regulations, including correct display of identification badges and general roadworthiness.
According to PC Quinton, several minor issues were identified, including improper display of driver badges and a few faulty lights. No major safety defects were found during the operation.
PC Quinton said any taxi or private hire vehicle can be stopped and inspected, regardless of where it is licensed, if operating in the Avon and Somerset area.
The checks come amid continued scrutiny of cross-border hiring, where drivers licensed by one local authority operate in a different area, often outside the original council’s direct control.
PC Quinton said: “I've been working with Wolverhampton Council today, checking their vehicles working across North Somerset and Bristol. There were quite a few minor issues with not displaying badges properly and a couple of lights out but no serious defects were found.
“Any taxis or private hire vehicles in our area can be stopped and checked regardless of where in the Country they are licensed.”
