A SEVEN-YEAR wrangle between York cabbies serving the city's station and GNER over an enforced smart dress code has finally been resolved - thanks to the clip-on tie.

Drivers wanting to renew their station rank permits must now wear a white or blue shirt and dark tie, tailored trousers and black dress shoes during the winter months.

There was concern about wearing ties in the height of summer, and some drivers had even feared that the regulation ties could be used to strangle them. But an agreement has been reached between GNER and Ian Gillies, secretary of Station Taxis - which issues the permits and will receive an annual management fee - that clip-on ties are permissible.

Station Taxis, which issues the permits, has agreed the move with GNER and in return will receive an annual management fee.

Cabbies operating from stations along the East Coast Main Line have adhered to a dress code for several years, according to Mr Gillies. York is the last station to agree to one.

"The growth in the number of people travelling by train has been good news for taxi firms serving railway stations," said Mr Gillies. "We all have a role to play in looking after passengers and I warmly welcome this new initiative. It will help to deliver a consistently high standard of service. York is an important business and tourist centre, and taxi drivers at the station have an ambassadorial role to play in creating the right first impression."

Jim Gilbert, GNER's customer operations director, said: "The East Coast Main Line is an important national transport corridor. Our staff have worked very hard to deliver a better quality of service on trains and at stations."

Councillor Steve Galloway, leader of City of York Council, said: "As part of the York Pride campaign, City of York Council wants the city to create a warm, welcoming and quality environment. First impressions are important and we therefore support GNER's initiative to establish quality reception facilities for those arriving at the city by rail."

During the summer, drivers can wear a plain blue or white polo shirt and smart trousers and shoes, but not shorts or trainers.

In 1997, the Evening Press reported a major dispute between cabbies and GNER over attempts to force them to wear a collar and tie. Drivers staged a boycott of the rank inside the station, until GNER backed down.

Updated: 10:47 Monday, April 05, 2004