THIEVES posing as customers tied a 'weapon' around a taxi driver's throat before stealing cash.

The cabbie was targeted as he drove two men along Ryefield Avenue West, in Haslingden, at around 9.45pm last night.

Police said the duo, who were sat in the front and back seats, demanded cash from the driver before placing an 'improvised weapon' around his throat.

They stole £35 before fleeing from the vehicle; the driver was left shaken but did not suffer any injuries.

The first man was 20 to 21 years old, 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build, with dark black hair which was thinning on the sides. He was clean shaven.

The second man was 24 to 25 years old, 5ft 8ins tall, of stocky build, with dark hair and was clean shaven.

Both were white and wore dark jackets.

The incident follows a new operation where undercover police use taxis to tackle anti-social behaviour on the public transport network.

Glen Bulcock, chairman of Rossendale Taxi Association, is demanding more protection from the council and police.

He said: “I am appalled that this has happened and it goes to show that not enough is being done to ensure the safety of our taxi drivers in Rossendale.

“The punishments people are getting for abusing taxi drivers are laughable.

“We need to be shown the same respect as bus drivers and every other member of the public.

“These people need to be caught and made an example of.”

DS Chris Scott, from Rossendale CID, said: “We are appealing for any witnesses to the incident."

Anyone with information should call DS Scott on 01706 237344.