Bishop’s Cleeve taxi trade have revealed how they’re “horrified” by the recent event in which an 18 year old girl was left at the roadside in the early hours of Sunday morning because she didn’t have the full fare.
Stranded
The young girl had been heading home after a night out in Cheltenham when she realised that she didn’t have enough cash on her to pay for the full journey. When she notified the driver she said that she would be able to get more money from her parents on arrival but the driver couldn’t be persuaded and ordered her to get out of the cab. Freezing cold, the girl was left with no option but to walk the rest of the way.
Taxi Trade Reaction
Parents across the county are furious. Fellow cabbies in the area have also expressed their dismay at the story.
The taxi drivers have approached Cheltenham Guardians – a community group run by volunteers to ensure night-time revellers make it home safely – to report their disgust at what happened to the girl and to offer to make amends.
Gesture of Goodwill
“It’s been suggested that what happened is not standard practice and that they take their duty of care for passengers very seriously.”
Cheltenham Guardians’ Operations Manager, Terry Howard, said: “A number of Cheltenham taxi drivers have approached Cheltenham Guardians and have asked us to convey the offer of a free taxi ride to the young lady who was unable to complete her journey on Sunday morning.
“The drivers that I’ve spoken with are horrified that such an event took place and would like to offer the free ride as a gesture of goodwill.
“It’s been suggested that what happened is not standard practice and that they take their duty of care for passengers very seriously. We strongly encourage taxi drivers to seek recompense for shortage of fare after a potentially vulnerable passenger is returned safely home and not to abandon them at the roadside.
“Between 11pm and 7am we encourage all taxi drivers to call Cheltenham Guardians on 07473 231741 if there is such an issue as we may be in a position to help.”