A taxi firm is celebrating 25 years in business at the end of this month.

Gosforth Taxis was set up by Shaun Pennington on March 31 1995.

Shaun runs the business alongside wife Dawn, with his mum Audrey and brother John also involved in the firm.

The company takes people on local trips as well as across the country and to international airports.

As well as driving people for weddings and corporate events the firm has also given a lift to a number of visiting celebrities.

Famous faces who have used its vehicles include TV presenter and singer Cilla Black, singer Russell Watson, Eastenders actor Max Branning, and TV chef Jean-Christophe Novelli.

Local MP Trudy Harrison is also a regular customer.

Shaun said whoever the customers were, the company had always focused on giving them the best experience possible.

“Helping the elderly get out and about with their shopping or to their doctors’ appointment and receiving that thank you from them is one of the most rewarding parts," he said.

"We ensure our clients have a smooth ride no matter where they are going. A lot of the time they start and finish their holidays with us, so we like to ensure we deliver the exceptional service at either end of their holidays.

"We pride ourselves on providing clean, efficient vehicles and a friendly reliable service.

“From myself, Dawn and the team at Gosforth Taxis we would like to say a big thank you to our customers past and present.”