Taxi drivers run scared in

Taxi drivers from Tonge Moor Private Hire say they fear for their safety, and are refusing to take or drop off fares in certain areas.

They claim youths throwing missiles at their cabs have caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage and put lives at risk.

As a result, they have labelled the Entwistle Street and De Lacy Drive districts as no go areas.

Windows have been smashed or cracked, eggs pelted at drivers and even string pulled across the roads by the wayward youngsters.

One driver, with more than 10 years' experience with the firm, said: "It had got to the stage where something had to be done.

"The last thing thrown at my car was hurled with such force that it cracked the windscreen in the corner.

"Only an air rifle or some kind of catapult could have done it with such force. Gangs of kids are responsible.

"They throw anything from stones to eggs at our cars.

"The other night another driver I work had a youth walk up to the side of his car, knock on the window, and punch his fist through it.

"This has been going on for a few years, but has been getting worse.

"We decided enough was enough and will not be going to pick up or drop off fares around Entwistle Street or De Lacy Drive.

"We accept this does happen in other areas, but that area seems to be the worst.

"These incidents tend to happen between 7pm and 10pm and can be quite frightening to passengers.

"In addition, it is startling to the drivers. In the split second they are shocked, they could lose control of their vehicle, hit another car, or even a pedestrian on an adjacent pavement.

"We are just hoping this ban will bring the message home to parents.

"It costs enough to keep our cars up to scratch without having to undertake bodywork repairs.

"Every six months we have to go for a plate test, and cars are failed if the body work is not up to scratch."

A police spokesman said he was not aware of any particular problems in the Tonge Moor area but said any complaint will be investigated.