With just over 24 hours until the biggest party night of the year, Cheshire East Council is urging residents to be taxi safe on New Year's Eve.
The licensing team is advising revellers to use a taxi or private hire firm that they trust and check the driver has an identification badge showing their photograph and personal number.
Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibilty for safer and stronger communities, said: "Although it is sensible to be taxi safe all year round, it is particularly important to reiterate the message during Christmas and New Year when the party season is in full swing.
"Our message is to have fun but think ahead and remember to be careful when planning your journey home. Always use a reliable firm and book your taxi. As well as checking the driver has a valid badge, ensure the vehicle has a valid licence plate featuring the Council's logo."
Cheshire Constabulary are also warning people not to drink and drive during the festive season and their campaign has already resulted in dozens of motorists being arrested as a result of drink or drug driving since it started on December 1st.
Assistant Chief Constable Phil Thompson, who is responsible for the policing of Cheshire's roads, said: "We want everyone to have a great Christmas and so we're repeating the message - if you are going out to celebrate this festive season leave the car at home. If you drink take a taxi or get a lift to work the following day."
Living Ventures have obviously recognised that a shortage of taxis on New Year's Eve can potentially put people off going out, or tempt some to drink and drive, they are offering customers at Gusto or Grill on the Edge a free lift home after the party celebrations.
Speaking to Jeremy Roberts, Commercial Director of Living Ventures, about this service he explained; "We had a great response last year to the initiative and we are more than happy to provide the same service this year as it was a real benefit to our guests. Drink driving is an issue all year, an issue that all bar and restaurant operators should take seriously. With the more relaxed atmosphere during the festive season, the temptation to offend becomes greater.
"At Living Ventures we are always looking at ways to help prevent this, therefore we are driving all our diners home. We always place a strong emphasis on ensuring our customers have a truly memorable time at New Year. By providing our diners with free transport home, it's a small gesture to thank our customers and ensure they get home safely."
