A WARNING has gone out to parents about stretch limos hired to take teenagers to their school proms in East Yorkshire.

Licensing officers from East Riding of Yorkshire Council have revealed that spot checks carried out during last year's graduation season found two eye-catching vehicles were unlicensed.

The drivers carrying the young people to and from the event had also not been checked to see if they had criminal records.

Senior schools across the East Riding are also being urged to be vigilant when hiring stretch limousines and other eye-catching vehicles for the big night.

Councillor Jackie Cracknell, portfolio holder for community involvement and performance, urged parents to beware of firms offering cheap cash-only deals.

She said: “This is a special night for young people and we want it to be memorable for all the right reasons.

“Stretch limousines are increasingly popular for prom style parties and we want to make sure that cars such as these stay within the law.

“The number of rogue companies is small. Be alert to companies offering huge reductions in costs and normally working for cash only.”

The council said that on the night of the booking, the driver should be able to show their driver’s licence, licence plate and driver’s badge or be authorised by VOSA if more than eight passengers.

A spokesman said a further purge was planned by the licensing team targeting stretch limousines, private hire vehicles and taxis over the coming prom season.

Operating private hire vehicles without a license was a criminal offence, with rogue operators facing a maximum fine of £1,000.

Operating or driving without the required licenses may also invalidate any insurance, he continued, adding:

“Our advice is to check the hire company is a genuine, professional licensed operation.

“It is important to check the vehicle is licensed and that the driver has been suitably vetted before booking.”