A TAXI firm manager in Warminster has warned that plans to cut tariff fares could result in more crime.

Adrian Berridge, of Starline Taxis in Warminster and Westbury, says the changes could have the opposite effect to that intended by Wiltshire Council.

Consultation on the council's proposals comes to an end today, after which the council will make changes.

The council wants to change tariffs to enable more clubbers and pub-goers to catch taxis home late at night and in the early hours of the morning.

Cllr Bridget Wayman, the cabinet member for transport, said: “They will encourage more people to enjoy the county’s night-time economy and they will reduce the number of people walking home late at night, which will make nights out even safer for residents and visitors to Wiltshire.”

But Mr Berridge, who represents 45 Starline taxi drivers, says the cuts will result in more cabbies giving up late-night and early hours work.

He said: "These changes will kill the late night trade. I used to have 10-12 drivers working the late shifts, now it's down to just three or four.

"If they change the tariffs, it will reduce the drivers' income. They will just decide to give up and stay at home and get a good night's sleep.

"My drivers often earn next to nothing between 1am and 3.15am. When the pubs and clubs close, they frequently have to deal with drunk and abusive customers.

"If the new tariffs come in, many of my drivers will just give up working late at night.

"There could be problems created by drunk people trying to make their way home."