A TAXI driver has issued a stark warning to residents not to get into unlicenced taxis which he fears could be operating in Harwich.

Dave Whittam, owner of Harwich Taxis said he has become concerned after a client told of a dark vehicle trying to pick him up minutes before his booked taxi arrived.

He added how taxi drivers from his company have had a number of no-show clients in recent weeks, which he fears could be because an unlicenced car is turning up before they arrive.

“I just want to warn people, especially young people - it is scary to think it could happen here and young girls especially need to be careful," he said.

“Our cars have Harwich Taxis written down the side and taxi licence plates on the back.”