A DISABILITY group in Keighley is taking its campaign against taxi overcharging district-wide.

The People First group is organising a high-profile rally next week to drive forward its fight for equal fares.

It is demanding that drivers stop charging as much as double to carry wheelchair users the same distances as able-bodied people.

People First Keighley and Craven, which is run by adults with learning disabilities, has teamed up with the health and social care group Turning Point for the latest push.

People First, based in Springfield Mills in Oakworth Road, has for several years campaigned against what it claims is disability discrimination.

Some taxi firms have defended the higher charges by saying larger vehicles are needed and drivers have to spend extra time helping wheelchair users get in and out.

The ‘transport equality’ campaign has been spearheaded People First member Tom Walsh, from Keighley, who uses a wheelchair and regularly faced higher fares.

Mr Walsh was last year filmed by the BBC taking undercover taxi trips to expose discriminatory practices across Bradford district.

The rally will be held on May 29, from 10am to 2pm, at the Cornerstones Centre at 5 Cannon Pinnington Mews, Cottingley.

Those attending will be asked to sign People First’s petition to enact section 165 of the Equality Act, which the group believes will stop overcharging nationally.

A spokesman said: “People can hear what options they have if they are being overcharged.

“There will be real studies from people who are directly affected by being overcharged taxi prices.”

Keighley-based Big Soup Theatre Company will run a theatrical workshop exploring the real-life experiences of wheelchair users who regularly take taxis.

Anyone wishing to attend should contact Carolyne Byrne on 01274 925961 or Omar Sardar on 01535 607222 to book a free place.