Tough checks for prom limo drivers

Chauffeurs dropping off teenagers to school proms this summer will be challenged by licensing officials as part of a new get-tough approach on illegal limousine firms.

The move, which will see three officials waiting for drivers, comes after unlicensed drivers were found to be ferrying prom-goers around. There has also been a surge in complaints that youngsters could be in danger from potentially unvetted drivers.

David Pattison, director of legal and licensing for South Staffordshire Council, said: "Because these cars tend to attract a more vulnerable clientele we are taking this extremely seriously.

"We have written to all high schools across the district asking them where their school proms will be held and we plan to post three officers at each venue to speak to limo drivers dropping off there.

"This is the most effective way of reaching large numbers of drivers quickly from both firms we don't know about and firms which might be operating outside the district.

"Chauffeurs who cannot prove they are correctly licensed with either the council or the Department of Transport will be interviewed under caution before potentially facing criminal charges.

Mr Pattison said all parents should check limousine firms were fully licensed before booking them for youngsters, while adding the council were prioritising educating drivers to ensure they have the correct paperwork.

The enforcement actions, which have been approved by the council's licensing committee, was welcomed today by charity Kidscape.

Director Claude Knights said: "This preventative measure is an excellent idea in that it is addressing a very real concern for many parents."

In May 2008, stretched limousines taking youngsters to school proms were targeted by a crackdown in Walsall. One of the US-style cars was taken off the road following the safety blitz by police and council officers.