22/03/2026
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⚠️ PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE: Don't Risk Your Life for a "Cheap" Trip ⚠️
We have once again been made aware of illegal minibus and coach operators working in the Newport area.
If a price seems too cheap to be true, it probably is.
Illegal operators put you and your loved ones at risk because they often lack:
A Valid Operator’s Licence: The legal requirement to prove they are fit and financially able to run a transport business.
Correct Insurance: Standard insurance does not cover "Hire or Reward." If there is an accident, you may not be covered.
Strict Maintenance: Legal operators must undergo safety checks every 6 weeks. Illegal "death traps" do not.
Professional Qualifications: "Grandfather rights" on a car licence DO NOT allow someone to drive for hire or reward. Drivers must have a full PCV licence and a Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
🔍 How to Verify an Operator:
Before you book, you can check if a company is legally registered on the official government website. If they aren't on this list, they aren't legal:
👉 Check here: https://www.gov.uk/find-vehicle-operators
✅ What to Check on the Day:
Look for the Blue, Orange or Green Disc: A legal Operator’s Licence must be displayed in the front window. Check that the name matches the company you booked.
Legal Lettering: Look for the company name and address on the passenger side of the vehicle.
Watch the Tachograph: The unit must be used. If it’s flashing "No Card Inserted," the driver is ignoring legal driving hours.
Don’t be Shy: Ask the driver to see their DQC (Driver Qualification Card).
🚍 Support Local & Legal,
Healthy competition is good for customers, but illegal operators are a danger to our community. There are plenty of reputable, legal companies like us to choose from in our area, including:
All Stretched Out
Jumbo of Newport
Newport Transport
C&E Travel/ Kevin Kavanagh
Tuskys Minibus Hire
Malpas Minibus Hire Limited
Plus many more who follow the law to keep you safe.
The DVSA has been notified of current illegal activity. If these vehicles are caught, they will be seized on the spot—leaving passengers stranded.
Safety 1st. You or your loved ones could be jumping into a death trap with an illegal driver. Don’t take the risk.