A Cheltenham private hire operator has been fined the maximum amount possible after continuing to accept bookings despite having his licence suspended.
According to an official statement from Cheltenham Borough Council, Victor Whitham of Bishop’s Cleeve pleaded guilty on Monday 27 October 2025 to operating a private hire vehicle without a valid operator’s licence.
Cheltenham Borough Council confirmed that Whitham’s operator licence for his company, Spa-Tax Cheltenham, had been suspended in October 2024 for non-payment of the required annual fee. Despite the suspension, he continued to take private hire bookings and dispatch vehicles licensed by Cheltenham Borough Council.
Although Whitham also held a separate operator licence with Tewkesbury Borough Council, that licence did not permit the use of Cheltenham-licensed vehicles or drivers.
Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court issued the maximum fine of £1,000, alongside a £400 victim surcharge and £1,706.40 in legal costs, bringing the total to £3,106.40.
Council officers said the successful prosecution demonstrates their commitment to ensuring all licensed drivers and operators meet local compliance requirements and that public safety remains a top priority.
DM News Commentary
This case is a strong reminder to all private hire operators that suspensions and revocations mean an immediate stop to bookings under that licence. Running jobs under another district’s licence — while using vehicles plated elsewhere — remains illegal and can lead to costly fines and a damaged reputation.
Operators managing fleets across multiple local authorities should keep close track of licensing renewals and fee payments to stay compliant.
Thanks for visiting DM News!
If you’ve got a question, story, or anything you’d like to say, head over to DriverMatty.com — I’d love to hear from you!
And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out my other websites and social media channels.
