The decision by the council's Licensing Sub-Committee comes in response to a direct request from a local taxi operator calling for an increase in the number of official stances.

Members of the general licensing committee voted overwhelmingly to refuse the application for a Skoda Octavia following a series of rule breaches and safety suspensions.

Aras Abdullah, 47, turned away the woman at Stoke Station, claiming a severe allergy to animal hair, North Staffordshire Magistrates' Court heard.

Daniel Smith, 34, was found guilty of assault and causing serious injury by dangerous driving at Glasgow Sheriff Court, following a dramatic confrontation that left the victim with broken bones and lasting trauma.

Surrey Police officers were called to Castle Street in the early hours of Sunday morning (May 10) following reports of a massive fight.

Argent Bajrami, 40, was cleared of the single charge by a jury, bringing an end to an allegation that dates back nearly three years.

The cabbie was working on Forge Lane in Etruria when the frightening encounter unfolded.

Kieran McKechnie, 37, of Kirkby, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court after being caught operating the "Lil T" drugs line to pay off a £1,300 cocaine debt.