TAXI drivers crippled by increases in petrol and insurance have written to Bolton Council asking to put up black cab fares.

They are doubtful they will see increases this year after councillors decided to take a closer look at the proposal.

Drivers are now considering what action to take to persuade councillors to rush through the suggested increases.

The Bolton Taxi Association has sent in proposals to increase the minimum fare from £1.40 to £1.80 for journeys between 6am and 10pm on Monday to Friday.

They want a rise from £1.60 to £2 for the minimum charge between 10pm and 6am, Monday to Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday.

The proposals were put before the council's licensing and environmental regulation committee yesterday.

Councillors decided to refer the report to a policy development group meeting.

The move came two days after cab drivers took to town centre streets to join the nationwide revolt against petrol prices.

Charles Oakes, secretary of the Bolton Taxi Association, said: "These prices will be negotiated and we won't see any real difference this year.

"Drivers are really beginning to suffer and we are sure this delay will force many out of business.

"There are cabs already parked up because we cannot get diesel.

"It is a bitter blow and may even result in action against the council."