Police objections overruled as taxi driver retains his licence

Cabbie keeps his licence despite police objection

A TAXI DRIVER who had two convictions – one for buying a child alcohol – has been granted an extension to his licence.

Appearing before the Moray Council licensing committee on Wednesday, Charlie Ross sought to extend his right to drive a cab in the region for three years – however, with the two unspent convictions he faced an objection from police.

Appearing at the licensing committee to oppose the application was Sergeant Gavin Jardine, who told Councillors of the day in March 2012 in Elgin when Ross was charged with buying alcohol for a child, saying that paramedics had been called to attend “an extremely drunk female”.

The Police sergeant reported that around that time officers had learned Mr Ross had provided Buckfast wine for the same teenager and her friends, and that in addition last year he was fined £200 and given three points on his driving licence after being caught driving at 51mph in a 30mph zone during roadworks on the A96 between Nairn and Forres.

In a personal appeal to the committee Mr Ross said that he was going through a really hard time when the offences were committed. He explained that he is now married and his wife had “totally changed” his life.

The committee unanimously agreed to extend Mr Ross’ licence until 2018.