A TAXI driver has been left with injuries to his face after being beaten and robbed in Bradford.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after the private hire driver was robbed last night.

Detectives said they were treating the incident as a "top priority".

The driver picked up two men from Reevy Crescent, Buttershaw, at 8.45 last night.

They asked to be driven to Eaglesfield Drive and the taxi went a short distance but as it was turning onto Church Street the two men assaulted him.

The taxi driver managed to leave the car but the two attackers followed him and beat him up again.

They then stole the Skoda taxi which was recovered a short time later on Fawcett Place.

The driver was left with facial injuries.

Both suspects are described as being about 5ft 8 tall, of medium build and wearing dark clothes.

One has blonde straight hair to his ears and the other had a dark hood or dark hat on.

Detective Chief Inspector Terry Long said: "Attacks on taxi drivers are not acceptable and we are treating this incident as a top priority.

"I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident or any suspicious behaviour, either where the victim picked up the fare or where he was assaulted to come forward."

Any witnesses are asked to contact DC Rob Hadaway on 101 quoting reference 1493 of Friday January 22.