Parents and senior schools throughout the East Riding are now being warned to check on whether the stretch limousine or novelty vehicle hired for the school proms is legal.
Any Lane who is the Operator of the Yorkshire Party Bus said;
“We are a local Beverley company that is fully insured and licensed to carry 16 to 32 passengers at a time.”
“Our party buses present an alternative to limousines. They are bigger and much better providing a good fun way to travel safely to your special event.”
“People are often pleasantly surprised once they see the price per person, with the on board entertainment our buses ensure you get your party off to the perfect start.”
Spot checks by East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s licensing team during last year’s prom season found two vehicles booked by parents were unlicensed and the drivers had not been vetted for criminal record checks.
Councillor Jackie Cracknell, portfolio holder for community involvement and performance, said:
“This is a special night for the younger generation and we want it to be memorable for all the right reasons.”
“Stretch limousines are ever more popular for prom style parties and we need to make sure that cars like these stay inside the law.”
“The amount of rogue companies is small. Be alert to companies offering huge reductions in costs and normally doing work for cash only.
“Our advice is to confirm the provider is a genuine, professional licensed operation. You will need to check the vehicle is licensed and that the driver has been suitably vetted before booking.”
On the evening of the booking, the driver should be able to show their driver’s licence, licence plate and driver’s badge or be authorised by VOSA if more than eight passengers.
Throughout the coming prom season, the licensing team will again be carrying out further checks on stretch limousines, private hire vehicles and taxis.
Operating private hire vehicles without a license is an offence which carries a maximum fine of £1,000. Operating or driving without the required licenses may also invalidate any insurance.