LATE-night Christmas revellers - especially women - are urged not get into unlicensed minicabs because of the threat of violence and sex attacks.

Taxiwise, a group with urges caution when using taxis has highlighted the dangers associated with the busy festive season.

And as many party revellers may have had a few drinks in Worcester's pubs and clubs, the temptation to jump into the first vehicle that stops, without checking the cab's registration, could spell problems for the passenger, warns Taxiwise.

Zaifat Hussain, chairman of Worcester Taxi Association, said he had not heard of unregistered taxis pulling up in ranks and offering lifts, but he would not rule out the possibility.

"I haven't heard of that sort of thing but it doesn't mean that it couldn't happen here," he explained.

Mr Hussain added that Worcester City Council approved saloon taxis. The London cab-style cars had a plate on the back certifying them as registered and it was worth passengers carrying out a quick check to make sure it was valid.

He said an ongoing problem in the Faithful City was taxis from other towns, including Malvern, Kidderminster and Redditch, stealing business by transporting passengers in Worcester.

"We would encourage the public to use Worcester council-approved taxis, and not to get into vehicles operating from other towns," he said.

Gabby Logan, the ITV sports presenter, is supporting the campaign.

"The number of horrifying attacks that are taking place throughout the UK is evidence enough of the potential dangers of taking a bogus cab," said the celebrity.

Tips for a safe night out and how to spot an unlicensed taxi can be found on the website www.taxiwise.com