Last week I had the misfortune to use a Blackburn private hire taxi.

I was not aware that today’s taxis seem to be oblivious to any road manners that was going on when I passed my driving test 50 years ago. We were propelled along Preston Old Road at speeds well in excess of 50mph although he did slow down at the speed cameras.

Upon reaching the traffic lights at the junction with Penny Street on Barbara Castle Way we accelerated through the lights on red. At this time I informed the driver that he was being rather naughty. His reply was that it was ok as there are no police about at this time of night. 10-30pm. After which he drove at a reasonable rate.

If this is the general standard of today’s Blackburn taxi drivers isn’t it time the council did something about it.

Would we not all feel safer in a cab if the driver had to take a professional driving test?

Disgruntled passenger, Name and address supplied