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Posted on the 25th March 2025 in PHTM News
AYR TAXI DRIVER ORDERED TO UNDERTAKE TRAINING AFTER TELLING TEENAGER TO 'DROP DEAD'
An 18-year-old girl was left "terrified" after an Ayr taxi driver told her to "drop dead" following a dispute over a tip, South Ayrshire Council's Regulatory Panel has heard.
The teenager alleged that driver Dennis Nutt had been rude and dismissive during the journey, referring to a "junkie" over the radio, which she believed was directed at her, and ignoring her requests to lower the music.
"I was genuinely scared that he was going to be violent with me because of the manner of his voice and the way he was holding the card machine," she told the panel. "I thought he was going to come out and assault me. And I was alone, so I was terrified."
The girl further claimed that Nutt had demanded a tip despite his behaviour, and then shouted "drop dead" as he drove away after she declined.
Richard Colville of the South Ayrshire Taxi Owners Association, representing Nutt, attempted to explain his actions. Regarding the term "junkie," Colville stated: "Dennis would like to point out that he used the term 'junkie', but it wasn't directed at the customer. It is a term that would be used to describe a fare. He understands that it is 2025 and we shouldn't be using that word or term anymore."
He also suggested that Nutt's lack of response to the passenger was due to his use of the CB radio.
A second complaint accused Nutt of using abusive language towards a passenger who cancelled their booking. Colville refuted this, stating Nutt only called to inform the passenger of a potential charge.
Councillor Clark stated: "I don't want to take anyone's livelihood away, but it almost seems to me that Mr Nutt needs some anger management."
The panel unanimously voted to require Nutt to complete a taxi and private hire training course, with the threat of licence suspension if he fails to comply.
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