Will someone please stop the world so I can get off.
Taxi driver appeals over dog ban
A Shropshire taxi driver who carries her dog in her cab for protection has been told she must stop.
Linda Hughes never used to travel anywhere without Anna, her one-year-old German Shepherd, until the council decided the animal posed a safety risk.
The Ludlow taxi driver often takes passengers with guide and hearing dogs and the council said there was a danger Anna could fight with other dogs.
Ms Hughes has appealed against South Shropshire District Council's decision.
Under the Disability Discrimination Act, which came into force on 31 March this year, taxi cabs must take passengers with guide dogs and hearing dogs for the deaf.
Ms Hughes said Anna had never had a problem with other dogs.
"There is nothing in any legislation to ban me from carrying my dog, there's been no problems, no complaints to date with any other animal," she said.
"I've carried several animals belonging to my clients, disability dogs, and my dog is well socialised, there's never ever been a problem."
Graham Jones, South Shropshire District Council's principal environmental health officer, said: "Our main concern is the conflict between her dog and any other dogs that need to be carried.
"There is a significant potential for difficulties."
Ms Hughes' appeal against the decision is due to be heard on Thursday.
