AN UBER driver has been fined hundreds of pounds after illegally picking up fares in Reading.

Aldin Stefanov was caught illegally picking up unbooked fares near St Mary's Butts.

The 46-year old was caught trying to illegally pick up passengers without a booking during Reading Festival.

The worldwide taxi app phenomenon was refused permission to operate in Reading last year but drivers licensed in London can still pick up passengers with a booking.

Stefanov, of Kintubry Walk, Reading, was nabbed on Sunday August 27.

He was fined £250 after admitting illegally plying for hire before Reading Magistrates' Court on Friday, February 3.

Paul Gittings, lead member for consumer services, said: "This is a positive outcome which upholds regulations that are in place to protect the public.

"I hope cases such as this will serve as a deterrent to drivers who are tempted to work illegally in Reading.

"Hopefully this prosecution sends out the message that Reading will not tolerate illegal taxi activity."

Stefanov was also told to pay costs of £400 and pay a £30 victim surcharge.

An Uber spokesman said: "Private-hire drivers are not allowed to pick up an unbooked trip anywhere in England and Wales and we will deactivate the account of any driver found plying for hire.

"This is the case whether or not we are licensed in a particular town or city."

Reading Borough Council's licensing committee rejected an application from Uber Britannia Ltd fearing there would not be enough demand.

The committee also feared there Uber would not keep a manned office in the town, would not confirm the number of vehicles they would use and feared the service could be dangerous.

Since then an act of parliament has made it possible for drivers registered elsewhere, including with Transport for London, to opperate in Reading.