PASSENGERS will get a Christmas present from cabbies in Chelmsford as they slash their fares over the festive period.

Between 6pm and 10pm on December 24 and 31, taxis in the city will charge about 25 per cent less for a ride.

This means a standard £10 fare will be cut to £7.50.

The gesture has been set up by the Chelmsford Taxi Association for the second year in a row in a bid to encourage more people to travel by cab.

Association chairman Ian Vernon said: “In recognition of the commitment and support shown by members of the public of Chelmsford in using Taxis throughout the year, we again decided to reduce our fees at these times.”

The price cuts for both days have been welcomed by passengers living in Chelmsford.

Liam Thrift, 23, of Beeches Road, said: “I think it is a good idea.

“It may not be a big cut in the fare but it is going to help pay for a pint in the pub or a portion of chips at the chippie, so it will be appreciated by people going out on both nights.

“I’m sure people looking to get home from places like the train station are going to be happy too.”