RECENT attacks on taxis is making Breightmet a no go area for drivers, it has emerged.

Police and councillors have branded the attacks as 'mindless' and have pledged to tackle the criminal behaviour.

The Bolton News reported just recently how a brick was lobbed at a moving private hire vehicle in the area, leaving the driver and the passenger shaken-up.

Ward councillors Stuart Hartigan and Adele Warren say they are aware of the recent incident and other similar incidents in the area.

Cllr Hartigan said: "We have had some issues on Winchester and Lenham Gardens. I do want to stress that it is a very small minority, and not everybody.

"But some taxis don't want to go to areas like Breightmet after 6pm.

"Taxi drivers provide an essential service for local people, getting to medical appointments etc. We don't want to lose taxis."

He added: "It's the vulnerable residents that suffer the most.

"It's unsafe for them and taxi drivers themselves who have families, and are trying to make a living,

"You shouldn't be attacked in your job. This needs to stop straight away.

"Someone could be seriously hurt or worse.

"We urge the police to take a proactive approach to help resolve this."

The two councillors have since spoken to the taxi driver about the incident.

Superintendent Chris Bridge, of GMP’s Bolton district, said: "Reports of attacks are concerning, and an understandably traumatic experience for the victims involved, who in these cases were simply trying to do carry out their job.

"This type of mindless and violent behaviour will not be tolerated towards anyone in our community and we are currently working with our partners including the council and local taxi firms to build a wider picture around these incidents, and ensure that those responsible are held to account.

"It’s really important that any offences are reported to police so that we can act on it at the earliest possible opportunity."

A neighbourhood watch meeting was held last night, where the issue was expected to be raised.