TAXI drivers in Barrow have welcomed a crackdown on motorists parking in designated ranks.

Earlier this year cabbies warned it was only a matter of time before a pedestrian is injured if motorists continue to park on the ranks in the town centre.

Only hackney taxi drivers are permitted to park on the ranks; in Buccleuch Street, Cornwallis Street, Dalton Road, Crellin Street and Cavendish Street so members of the public can see which cars they can get into without needing to book.

But cabbies are becoming increasingly frustrated with motorists abusing the ranks and have called for the authorities to step in.

On Friday night their wish was granted as a multi-agency taskforce of council officials, police officers and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency took to the streets.

Cumbria County Council parking officers issued tickets to motorists abusing the ranks.

One cabbie said on Friday: “Traffic enforcement booking cars parked in taxi ranks;16 cars ticketed at the last count.

You can’t say you weren’t warned.”

Police officers also carried out out spot checks on regular vehicles.

Barrow Police said on Twitter: “Been at Barrow Town Hall tonight with Cumbria Specials and Barrow Borough Council assisting with taxi checks.

“Also checked a few anti-social driving non-taxis with ‘enhancements’.

“Overall standards were good; six vehicle prohibitions from 47 checks.”