THREE taxi drivers in the city have died from coronavirus since the beginning of the pandemic, it has been revealed.

A number of other Brighton and Hove cab drivers are also currently "suffering" from the virus after testing positive.

The deaths come amid a downfall in takings, with some cabbies in Brighton forced to visit food banks to provide for their families.

Brighton and Hove Taxi Trade Forum Association has called for an "urgent" meeting with the council, amid a "catastrophic downfall of customers".

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GMB trade representative Andrew Peters said: “This last year the local trade has faced a catastrophic downfall of customers and most of the licensed drivers and proprietors are only just able to hang on.

“Some may have taken advantage of finance holidays for vehicle loans but this was only for a limited period.

“Conversely, some have had to suffer the indignity of visiting a food bank in order to keep food on their table for their family.

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“Along with the main points that must be addressed, the state of the mental health and psychological welfare of the drivers and proprietors cannot be underestimated or overstated.

"Sadly I also have to provide an update that three Brighton and Hove licensed drivers have now died due to the virus with a number of others currently suffering from it having tested positive."