Festival goers visiting Download near Castle Donington have been warned to stay safe and only use licensed taxis.

The call comes from North West Leicestershire District Council and South Derbyshire District Council on the first day of the 2023 festival - and highlights drivers who might be illegally 'plying for trade' and offering to pick people up along the road.

The two authorities are also advising visitors to the Donington Park-event to only use taxis licensed in their area.

Taxis operating outside of their licensed area are breaking the law and are not insured.

Anyone looking for a taxi is reminded:

• Pre-book your taxi if you can
• Only Hackney Carriages are licensed to pick up passengers without a booking
• The safest place to hail a taxi is at a designated rank
• All taxis must display a licensing plate from their licensing authority

Download's taxi rank is in at the pick up and drop off area on Melbourne Lane.

Licensing officers from both authorities will visit the event across weekend to ensure passenger and visitor safety.

Concerns about taxi safety should be reported to the council that issued the licence as soon as possible.

Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC, said: "Thousands of people visit the Download Festival and we want to make sure they all make it safely home.

"If you're travelling by taxi we would encourage you to book one in advance where you can, but if you can't, then please only use the designated taxi rank at the site."

Councillor Robert Pearson, Leader of South Derbyshire District Council added: "Any taxi drivers heading to Download Festival who have not got a legitimate booking, or a permit issued by the organisers, need to be aware that Enforcement Officers will be patrolling. If any taxi drivers are found illegally plying for trade, we will take legal action as required.

"We want to ensure taxi customers and festival goers have a fun but safe time at Download."