A BONHILL taxi driver who was fined for having a tyre in poor condition while driving through Clydebank has had his licence renewed.

Stephen Walker appeared before West Dunbartonshire Council last week to determine whether the licensing committee would allow his licence to be renewed after the car was spotted by police.

The 50-year-old was seen by officers on patrol around 10.25pm on February 9 last year on Great Western Road near the Drumry roundabout.

Walker, of Elmbank Drive, pleaded guilty at Dumbarton justice of the peace court two weeks ago to driving with a tyre that had a portion of ply or cord exposed, and to failing to maintain his vehicle in a safe and serviceable condition while holding a taxi licence.

He was fined £130 and three penalty points added to his licence.

However, his licence was granted after he explained the incident was an “oversight” on his part.

He said: “I explained at the time I had only had the car since December and it had just had its MOT.

“I didn’t expect the tyres to wear within seven or eight weeks. I know it was an oversight on myself.

“I’m vigilant with it now but I never gave it a thought before to tell you the truth. I know I should have been looking at it.”

Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, chairman of the committee, said: “I will move to grant your application but keep an eye on the condition of your vehicle.”