Europe's first tuk-tuk service is back on the streets with a new fleet of colourful rickshaws.

The controversial three-wheelers now include half a dozen six-seaters and twelve three-seaters which will be able to collect passengers from anywhere in the city centre.

The dial-and-ride operation will pit tuk-tuks directly against taxis and could lead to the fraught relationships become increasingly strained.

TucTuc Ltd withdrew the bus service, with set stops, last December and had hoped to hit the road again in April.

But an administrative bungle, that owner Dominic Ponniah blames on the licensing authority, delayed the relaunch until yesterday (WEDS).

Up to 18 tuk-tuks will now be buzzing around the streets of the city, including some of the form of 2006 - The Friesen, Strawberry, Britannia, Valentine and Polka.

And TucTuc Ltd owner Dominic Ponniah has promised to unveil a new design next month to rival the Chavrolet, which was pulled off the road after Burberry complained the vehicle's livery infringed its copyright.

The three-wheelers have been made in the company's factory in Mumbai, India, with 17 inch televisions which will show adverts and community news.

To assuage safety fears, Mr Ponniah has revealed that the new vehicles include larger and stronger chassis, cushioned headrests and the roadside exit has been blocked off.

Passengers can be picked up and dropped off 24 hours a day anywhere within central Brighton and Hove, including King Alfred, Preston Park and Brighton Marina.

Journeys within the central zone cost £3 per person during the day and £3.50 for the outer zone. Prices double after midnight.

The quirky rickshaws have faced strong opposition from the taxi fraternity who complain the vehicles are unsafe and the drivers not vetted.

Ted Kemble, Conservative city councillor and taxi driver, said: "We are really concerned about safety.

"The talk among the trade in general is they are looking to follow up on the new licence as it is effectively a private hire service by the back door."

But Mr Ponniah has said the vehicles have been approved by the government agency VOSA and drivers have been security screened.

The three-wheelers were fined £16,500 last year when TucTuc Ltd was found not to be sticking to its timetable, although an appeal against the decision cut this to £8,000.

Mr Ponniah said he is confident the service will avoid teething problems this time.

He said: "We have a new service and new vehicles and it is all very exciting.

"The feedback has been fantastic and it is already going well - we have bookings for 40 people, weddings and lost of interest from big groups.

"The new scheme works for us and it is convenient for passengers and something new that we want to try.

"I think it is about time the taxi drivers accepted there are other vehicles and other modes of transport.

"The tuk-tuks fit in so well with Brighton as it is always a place for new ideas and businesses."

Bookings can be made by telephone on 01273 205 000 and at the ticket booths which will open across the city. For more information visit www.tuctuc.co.uk.

Will you be riding on the new tuk-tuks? Or are you worried about safety? Leave your comments below.