TAXI firms across Malvern are feeling the pinch of increasing petrol prices amid falling profits and fewer passengers.

With prices at the pumps sitting at around £1.40 per litre Malvern’s cabbies are suffering what is a nationwide issue.

Even the county’s best taxi driver isn’t immune to the effects of the escalating charges.

Sue Penny, owner of Sue’s Taxis and Classic Cabs, was recognised at last year’s Worcestershire Welcome awards for her outstanding customer service, but has had to halve the number of cars she runs due to increased costs and falling passenger numbers.

Mrs Penny, of Knapp Way, said: “It’s more of a grab than a pinch, it has really hit us hard and as a company we are suffering. I am two cars down on last year, so now it is just my son and myself. It is no longer viable to run four cars. We have to work a minimum of 60 hours a week to make a profit.

“My last full day off was Christmas day three years ago. I love my job and my passengers but the passengers are not able to pay the ever increasing rates, so they are now using trains for long journeys.”

Nick Nugent of Great Malvern Taxis said he has also noticed a marked impact on his trade as a result of the rising fuel prices.

“We are struggling because it’s 140 a litre. As soon as it went over £1 a litre it has been hurting us. There is less business and it is costing us more to get that business.”

Steve Box, owner Steve’s Cars private hire, said he was concerned about the impact fuel costs could have on his local business.