Warwick District Council's licensing team has recently carried out inspections on 27 private hire vehicles operating in Leamington.

The council collaborated with the City of Wolverhampton's Compliance Department to carry out inspections, specifically those originating from outside the district boundaries.

The enforcement checks took place in the town centre from 9pm to 3am on Saturday, 4 October.

While most of the vehicles checked were compliant, one driver was suspended for not having the taxi plate properly affixed to their vehicle and for having tinted windows.

Two other vehicles were identified with tyres that were nearly non-compliant; however, they have since submitted evidence demonstrating that the tyres have been replaced.

Portfolio Holder for Safer, Healthier and Active Communities, Cllr Jim Sinnott said: "Taxis are a vital service and are a huge support to the night-time economy.

"While it is not illegal for taxis licensed by other authorities to operate across our district, we must ensure as far as possible that these vehicles meet the high standards required by our Council, and we have a regular and robust system of checks in place.

"I would like to express my thanks to the Council's Licensing Team and to the officers from Wolverhampton's Compliance Department who took part in this exercise…a late night for all."

The operation was timed to coincide with the return of Warwick University students, which typically triggers a surge in the demand for taxis.

The councils plan to conduct further joint inspections in the coming months.

Licensing Officer from Wolverhampton City Council, Costas Cosmas added: "Wolverhampton Council's Taxi Team regularly works with other councils to ensure that licensed drivers are adhering to their licensing conditions. This joint operation with Warwick District Council is an example of excellent partnership work."