An unlicensed taxi driver has been ordered to pay a £760 fine following a successful prosecution carried out by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Licensing and Enforcement Officers.
The Clydach Vale man was found operating an unlicensed vehicle as a Taxi and misleading the public by using a vehicle that appeared to be licensed when it was not.
Gareth Matthews, trading as Pickles Private Hire - a licensed private hire driver and operator of a single small vehicle, appeared before Merthyr Magistrates’ Court last month.
Mr. Matthews pleaded guilty to offences relating to the use of an unlicensed, larger ‘people carrier’ vehicle to undertake airport journeys. Although Mr. Matthews was licensed for a single small vehicle, he was found to be carrying passengers for money in the larger, privately owned vehicle that was not licensed by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
The investigation began after officers received a complaint in 2023 alleging the use of an unlicensed vehicle. Despite being formally reminded of licensing requirements and warned of prosecution, subsequent complaints alleged Mr. Matthews continued to use an unlicensed minibus for commercial journeys, including airport transfers advertised on social media.
Licencing and Enforcement Officers requested information from both Cardiff and Bristol Airports and found that the vehicle in question had entered drop-off areas 47 times between 1st May and 14th July 2025.
During a PACE interview, Mr. Matthews admitted to a "small number" of trips but was unable to explain the extensive evidence of airport entries.
Merthyr Magistrates court handed Mr. Matthews a £760 FINE for his unscrupulous actions.
Councillor Robert Harris, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
"This irresponsible and illegal behaviour will not be tolerated, as it jeopardizes public safety, puts people at risk through uninsured journeys and breaks trust and confidence in our responsible businesses.
“By using an unlicensed vehicle, this individual bypassed the rigorous safety checks and insurance requirements that are there to protect every passenger.
“Our licensing team works tirelessly to ensure that all taxis in Rhondda Cynon Taf meet the highest standards. When people use 'cowboy cabs,' they are putting their lives on the line. Hackney Carriage taxis licensed within Rhondda Cynon Taf are black in colour and are provided with a Council issued plate on the rear showing the maximum number of passengers and a door sign on each side of the front doors. Drivers who are licensed by the Council are also issued with a badge which they must show customers when asked.
“I would always say if in doubt, don’t get it and I’d encourage anyone with information on unlicensed taxi drivers or unlicensed vehicles operating in Rhondda Cynon Taf to contact the Council’s Licensing Team.”
If you are using a taxi in Rhondda Cynon Taf remember the following to keep you safe:
- Check the plates and send a photo to a friend so they know you’re travelling home safely,
- RCT Taxis are black in colour,
- Will have a Council issued plate on the back of the vehicle,
- A door sign on each side of its front doors,
- A badge – which MUST be shown when a customer asks.
To report an unlicensed taxi driver, please contact the licensing team by email licensing.section@rctcbc.gov.uk or on 01443 425001.
Posted on 19/03/2026