An unlicensed private hire driver has been fined almost £1,500 after illegally operating in Uttlesford.

Peter Garrett, of Little Walden Road, Saffron Walden, appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on August 1.

He was found guilty of acting as the driver of a private hire vehicle without having a current licence, operating a private hire vehicle without holding a current licence, and using a motor vehicle without valid insurance.

Council enforcement officers were made aware of social media posts published by Mr Garrett which advertised his services as a private chauffeur.

Officers, acting as members of the public, called the number and had a booking accepted for the pre-agreed price of £35.

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Mr Garrett agreed to a pick-up point where he was met by the officers. He did not hold the required licenses, and as a result did not have the appropriate insurance cover.

He was fined £580 and offered to pay a victim surcharge of £232, plus costs of £600, totalling £1,142. Six penalty points were also added to his licence.

Cllr Alex Armstrong, chair of the council’s licensing and environmental health committee, said: "These are extremely serious offences, and we hope this successful prosecution will serve as a warning to others that we will take appropriate action against those who flout the law."