A NEW app for ordering taxis offering an Uber-style booking service in Barrow has taken off, according to its founder.

Appy Cabs has been in the making for the past two years and it was officially launched eight weeks ago.

The app allows customers to select their location and drop-off point on a map using the phone's location.

The app, founded by Brian White and seven other members, is linking passengers with independent Hackney carriages.

"I have been a taxi driver for 25 years and I felt there was a better way for drivers to be looked after," said Brian.

"We created an app that is free for all Hackney carriages. The app works the same way as the online app Uber but with no fees involved."

The business is currently only providing services for people in Barrow and surrounding areas, including Dalton and Ulverston. 

Brian believes there was a 'gap' in the taxi market and therefore it has been 'welcomed massively' by the residents.

He said: "There was a massive hole to provide a brilliant app for the town and people absolutely love it.

"I have already driven hundreds of people around. It is growing arms and legs, and we need more drivers to be able to do the work because we took off that well."

Brian said the aim was to create a platform that provides a 'relaxing' experience for both the drivers and the users.

He said: "We are trying to create a platform for people to get a much better service than what they are getting at the moment and to provide a service to the drivers that creates an atmosphere where they don't have to come out on a Sunday and work all day just to pay their bosses for that week of work.

"It is a platform where the drivers can work when they want, and there is no pressure to pay to make a living."

Appy Cabs is doing a £500 raffle on Halloween night for those who download and use the app between now and Halloween night as a way to thank the community.