Wiltshire pub launches taxi service

Licensee Peter Gill has no qualms about driving customers to drink - he can also make sure they get back safely.

Peter now operates a taxi service, called Appycars, from the Curriers in Wootton Bassett. Having done the Knowledge of the Wiltshire town and its surrounding area, he has been granted a Hackney Carriage licence.

He said: "When I took over the town centre pub seven months ago, I quickly found myself driving some of my customers home at the end of the evening as a favour, because I'm a teetotaler.

"My 'taxi' service became so popular that I decided to turn it into a proper business."

The pub's owner, Swindon-based brewer Arkell, is supporting the move. Managing Director James Arkell said: "It's wonderful that Peter is concerned enough about his customers to make sure they get home safely.

"And if it turns out to be a profitable sideline and of benefit to the residents of Wootton Bassett, we take our hats off to him."

With two taxis now running, Peter's wife Jennifer is also doing the Knowledge so she can help out when Appycars needs an extra driver.

Peter says: "I'm first and foremost a publican, have been for 20 years and that isn't going to change.

"But if the need for a local service is there to compliment Wootton Bassett's current taxi service, then I'm happy to oblige, and if I get enough drivers to help out, I'll gladly return to the back seat behind my bar."