TWO brothers who operated as unlicensed taxi drivers have received driving bans.

Paul and Andrew Stafford have both been disqualified from driving for a period of six months after they were found to be driving taxis without licenses.

The pair, from Callands and Old Hall, had been operating vehicles in the Cheshire West and Chester area.

Appearing at court on Monday, Gresford Close resident Paul Stafford, 41, was fined £153 a received eight penalty points after admitting two offences and was also ordered to pay £125 costs and a victim surcharge of £20.

Andrew Stafford, 35, admitted three offences and was fined £253 and given eight penalty points.

The Livingstone Close resident was also ordered to pay £125 costs and a £29 victim surcharge.

A licensed operator was convicted and sentenced at an earlier hearing in connection with the duo’s offences.

Maria Byrne, director of place operations for Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “This case sends out a clear message that the authority will not tolerate unlicensed vehicles or drivers putting the travelling public at risk.

“We had no option other than to instigate prosecution proceedings.

“Licensed vehicles have plates attached to prove they are licensed which include an expiry date and vehicle licence number – drivers also have to wear a photo ID badge provided by the council.”