Pushback Pedicab riders wary of new rules to cap fares

On their last night in London, and for the second time on their trip, Edward and Tiffany from California took a pedal-powered cab, or pedicab.

- Mabel Banfield-Nwachi

"We want to experience the culture of London and we love these," Edward said, pointing at the bike decorated in faux fur and lights.

"I started off selling food in the streets, so for me to be able to support [the cyclist], it's important.

I know he'll probably have a family he's supporting, so it's nice to just give back to the people," he added.

For many years, pedicab cyclists have been regarded as the outlaws of the West End, operating with no regulation and no cap on prices.

Concerns have been raised about rogue riders scamming tourists into shelling out extortionate fares for journeys that are a short walk or would cost a couple of pounds on public transport, and over the loud music some play late into the night.

This week King Charles introduced a bill that is expected to bring in a licensing system for the three-wheeled rickshaw-style carriages, which his speech described as a "scourge" on the capital.