TAXI drivers caught using bushes in Barrhead town centre to answer the call of nature have been warned they could be fined on the spot and even lose their licence.

A joint investigation was launched by the police and East Renfrewshire Council into claims that some cabbies have been using the shrubbery as a makeshift loo.

Complaints have been made that drivers parked in Glen Street while waiting for fares have been nipping into the bushes to relieve themselves – often in the middle of the day.

Police and council officials were alerted by a taxi driver who was concerned about the conduct of his colleagues.

He had been given camera footage by a friend and has now forwarded it to the authorities for investigation.

The driver said: “It’s disgusting what they are doing, particularly when we are still in the middle of a pandemic and all the health issues that surround that.

“I doubt very much if they’ve been washing their hands afterwards either.

“This is a spot that is busy with children passing through and it’s the last thing you want them to see in the middle of the day.”

Barrhead town centre doesn’t have an official taxi rank but drivers can park up while they wait to be allocated fares by their control room.

The whistleblower added: “There are plenty of places in the town centre with toilets, including the Asda store.”

A council spokesman said taxi drivers have been warned to clean up their act or face penalties.

He added: “As soon as we were made aware of this matter, necessary action was taken to ensure drivers were reminded their conduct could impact on their licence.

“Any private hire driver found to be acting in an unacceptable manner could be reported to the council’s Licensing Committee.”

Police have also pledged to clamp down on the problem.

Inspector Stevie Scott said: “This issue has been brought to the attention of the police via the taxi compliance officer. Now that we are aware of this, we will afford the area extra attention.

“I would encourage anyone who observes this type of behaviour to contact us.”

Barrhead has two local taxi firms but any company can pick up and drop off fares in the town.

Inspector Scott added: “We’ve not had any calls highlighting one particular company.”