BBC Radio 5live is to run a feature highlighting the all too common issue of attacks on cab drivers.
Producers of the national radio show are appealing for black cab or private hire drivers that would be willing to share their personal experiences of assaults or abuse on the programme.
Prime Example
One such case is that of a 44-year-old cabbie from Coventry. Doing his duty in the early hours of Saturday morning, the unfortunate driver was attacked by two customers who disputed the cost of their journey.
A knife came out and, fearing for his life, the cabbie tried to run away. One of the assailants, however, chased him, stabbing him in the leg, which later required stitches. The victim managed to call for help but as he waited on an ambulance the two reprobates tried and failed to steal his vehicle. They did, however, manage to rob the contents of the cab before making off.
CCTV
MP Richard Fuller’s recent moved a motion in the House of Commons calling for CCTV cameras to be installed in all hackney cabs and private hire cars. He argues that cases like the one above could be put to bed quickly with the help of clear video evidence.
The BBC radio show also wants to speak to drivers who’ve had CCTV installed in their taxis, to find out what they think and if they feel it’s working in terms of deterring criminals.
Interested?
Have you been subject to verbal or physical abuse while taxiing? Have you recently installed CCTV equipment in your cab? Or have you simply had enough of reading about attacks on cabbies? If yes, then this is your chance to voice your opinion.
If you think you would be interested in taking part in the BBC Radio 5live Investigates programme, please contact Emma Forde by email at emma.forde@bbc.co.uk or call her on 0161 335 6457.