Taxi drivers and private car hire operators are facing huge challenges to make ends meet as they are increasingly affected by the recession.

Clubs, pubs and restaurants have all been hit hard by the credit crunch as customers stay away; this is turn is having a detrimental effect of the nations taxi and mini-cab industry.

The summer season is traditionally a difficult time for cab drivers. With school children having time off an many parents on holiday, there is a seasonal decrease in demand for taxi services, none more so than this year.

One man interviews, Mr Chris Addision, says that on a bad day he is looking at taking home just £20 for an 8 hour shift, or around £2.50 per hour. This is considerably lower than the average wage.

Addison is a father of three and claims that the lack of income is severely impacting his family life, with his children forced to go without even the simplest of needs, although they appear to understand the economic crisis; “Usually they are not that demanding and they do not ask for too much – I am pretty lucky on that sense.” Addison said.

There have been other factors which have contributed to the misery, including the decision by Virgin trains earlier this year to reduce the amount of taxi parking spaces around the local rail station. Preston was reduced to a standstill when a protest by local taxi drivers, who erected their own car-blockade, bought traffic to a halt. The debate is still ongoing.

Meanwhile, the smoking ban has seen punters stay away from city centers, most notably on weekends when cab hire is at a premium. Increased beer prices have also been blames. Taxi drivers across the country are already looking towards the festive season for a respite.

Thanks to www.limobroker.co.uk for the above information. For more details please refer to their website.