A WOULD-BE robber fled empty-handed when taxi drivers refused to take him seriously.

The man, armed with a piece of wood, entered the office of Blueline Private Hire in Albert Close, Whitefield, shortly after 2am on Monday (Feb 3). He ordered the controller and a number of drivers to lie down on the floor. But they thought it was a joke, laughed and ignored him. Even when he threatened to smash the equipment they ignored him and the thief stormed out.