A 58-year-old driver was taking a fare to Minerva Way in Wellingborough yesterday at about 12.30am when he was threatened by the passenger, who claimed he had a knife and demanded cash.

The driver handed over a small amount of money and there was a struggle between him and the thief, who was punched in the face.

Wellingborough Taxi Drivers Association chairman Barry Liffen said: "We are at risk because we carry cash.

"Drivers are always alert when they pick someone up. The job is difficult enough as it is without the fear of being assaulted or losing your life."

After stealing the cash the thief ran off.
The attack is the latest in a series of similar incidents.

Mr Liffen said one Wellingborough cab driver gave up his job after a stabbing left him in constant fear.

Wellingborough taxi driver Ian Roy said: "Robbers target people who are carrying cash.It has been happening for years, but the way the country is going, with everybody struggling for money, I think we are going to get more of it."

On August 26 a driver was robbed at knifepoint by passengers in Little Harrowden, and forced out of his car by the man and woman who drove it away.

A similar incident happened the previous week when a man and a woman tied a washing line around the neck of a minicab driver before robbing him in Northampton.

A police spokesman said: "Taxi drivers are put in vulnerable positions and we always encourage them to take all the security measures possible.

"Security devices can be installed in taxis and drivers could consider carrying a personal attack alarm."

Mr Liffen said: "When I get my next cab I will be looking at a black cab with a partition between the driver and passenger because you have extra protection that way."

The thief was a white man, about 25, 5ft 8in and slim. He wore a sleeveless high visibility jacket.

Witnesses to any of the incidents are asked to call the police on 08453 700700.