The Mayor of London is launching a hard-hitting ad campaign warning of the dangers related to using illegal cabs.

With the season for Christmas parties getting well underway, Boris Johnson is warning people against the temptation of travelling in unlicensed taxis.

Transport for London (TfL) and police in Hillingdon are teaming up to crack down on taxi touting.

Steve Burton, TfL's director of community, safety and policy, said: “A simple rule to remember is that only licensed taxis (black cabs) can be hailed in the street or picked up at a rank without booking.

“Any minicab journey that hasn't been booked through a licensed operator is illegal, uninsured and unsafe.

“The reason booking is so important is that it guarantees your trip will be carried out by a licensed driver in a licensed vehicle.”