A TAXI driver from York has been fined after illegally picking up three people and breaking licensing offences.

Ian Limbert, 55, of Elmpark View, was driving for York Cars when he picked up an un-booked fare in Rougier Street on November 27 and drove them to Thirsk.

When one passenger realised the driver was acting illegally, she demanded her fare back before leaving the car. City of York Council, who led the prosecution, said Limbert then tried to “pull the customer out after doing a U-turn in the market place with the passenger rear door open and a passenger half out of the car”.

The incident was seen by police on local CCTV and reported to the council, who revoked Limbert’s licence, and on Wednesday, Limbert pleaded guilty and was fined a total £748 - a £100 fine each for plying for hire and unfair trading, court costs of £518 and a court surcharge of £30.

Cllr Sam Lisle, executive member for housing and safer neighbourhoods, said: “Having confidence in our taxi drivers is essential which is why we enforce standards and, where appropriate, prosecute breaches.

“Harassing a passenger in this way as well as flouting the law governing private hire is unacceptable. We appreciate the support of the operator to uphold standards in the city.”