A taxi driver who posted a hate fuelled rant on social media has surrendered his licence.

Zaheer Hussain, 41, handed over his badge to Preston City Council following a review at the Town Hall today.

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More than 1,000 people signed a petition calling for Hussain’s licence to be revoked after he was arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated harassment last month.

A video, shot in the Moor Park area of the city, emerged on social media, showing Hussain ranting about Muslims who convert to Christianity, and making rape threats.

He later apologised in a second video.

A spokesman for Preston City Council said: “A Hackney Carriage driver has appeared before the Taxi and Miscellaneous Committee today to have their Hackney Carriage driver’s licence reviewed.

“During the course of the hearing, the driver agreed to hand-in their Hackney Carriage driver’s licence by the close of business today, and has already done so.

“This will be in effect until the completion of the related police investigation and any subsequent legal processes.

“The driver will be unable to drive a Hackney Carriage in Preston until reappearing before the Taxi and Miscellaneous Committee for a full licence review.”

Following his arrest Hussain was released under investigation.

Read more: Community leader speaks out against hate mail delivered to Muslims

This story originally stated Mr Hussain had been stripped of his licence. That is not correct. No decision has been made yet by any licensing authorities. Apologies for any confusion caused.