SERIOUS concerns have been raised about the safety of people using 'cash for lift' services rather than fully-licensed taxi cabs.

More than 5,000 people are members of the Bournemouth and Poole Town Lifts group on Facebook.

Members post when and where they want a lift from, with drivers then saying if they can pick them up or not.

The popularity of the group has rocketed in recent months, leading to concerns about public safety.

In the description of the group on Facebook, it says: "People doing lifts from town all in one place.

"No sales advertising

"Post will be deleted instantly

"If the member continues to advertise they will be removed."

It adds: "No one likes a mug don't stitch let people know if you don't need it or can't make it."

Independent taxi driver Paul Stark, who has been in the trade for 30 years, said: "It is the biggest challenge we face at the moment.

"It's ridiculous on so many levels.

"On a very basic level, it's not safe. No-one has been checked or vetted. And then there is the issue of insurance."

Mr Stark said: "It's getting out of hand. They need to be stopped, they're breaking the law."

Licensing committee chairman at Bournemouth Council, Andrew Morgan said: "I know we are looking at this as an issue.

"I am expecting there to be a report back to the committee at some stage and we are actively taking steps to identify such drivers.

"As this is all online, it is made more difficult.

"In terms of advice, people should not get into an unlicensed vehicle; they are putting themselves at risk."

Kevin Holmes, chair of the Bournemouth Joint Taxi Trades Association, said: "It's a big issue - not for our drivers, but for the passengers accepting these lifts.

"These people are not insured to do the work. I don't know how they are going to stop it.

"It's a worry. The trade can cope but we're worried about safety."

Dorset Police said their advice for the public would be to get a bus or licensed taxi.