A minicab driver has been ordered to pay more than £1,000 for driving a licensed private hire vehicle without valid insurance.

Shahid Mushtaq, of Victoria Street, Aylesbury, was found to have changed his vehicle insurance so he was no longer covered to carry passengers despite continuing to work.

He pleaded guilty by post and was sentenced on June 23 at Wycombe Magistrates Court.

Bucks Council officials said the offence involved a “higher degree of culpability” as he was working as a private hire driver at the time and there was evidence of “sustained” uninsured use.

He was fined £440 (reduced from £660 in view of his guilty plea) with costs of £660 awarded to the council and a victim surcharge payable of £44, making a total of £1,144 - which he was given 28 days to pay.

Mushtaq also received eight points on his licence.

Nick Naylor, cabinet member for housing, homelessness and regulatory services, said: “Driving a vehicle without valid insurance is a serious offence. Compliance with road safety laws and the rules for taxi and private hire licensing are essential for keeping the public safe when they are using licensed vehicles.

“Council officers conduct regular inspections and investigations to ensure that drivers comply with the rules.

“Protecting the public is paramount and we will take all necessary action to ensure that drivers comply with the law and uphold their responsibility to keep passengers safe.

“Drivers who fail to uphold these standards can expect robust enforcement action.”