The festive period is the busiest time for UK taxi drivers with work parties, friends and family get-togethers and other occasions seeing more people than usual hit the town. With more people travelling to town for a drink the city taxi driver is inevitably an in demand individual, with queues being formed up and down the streets for cabs. Leicestershire in an area that really feels the wrath of this, with many unlicensed taxis using this opportunity to make money. With so many unwelcome stories of unlicensed taxi drivers being connected with violent crimes the Leicestershire District Council have this year stepped in, issuing a warning to the people of the area. The authorities have urged partygoers to only use licensed taxis or private hire vehicles, looking out for people’s safety over the Christmas period. Licensed taxis, or Hackney carriages, sport a green plate and can be hailed on the street as well as pre-booked over the phone. Private hire vehicles have a blue plate and must be booked in advance. If a vehicle does not have either of these, it could well may be unlicensed and therefore unsafe to use. The council has warned people not to get in a cab if this is the case. If you are a taxi driver then tell us what you think of this story by leaving your comments below.