POLICE have launched an appeal to find two men who robbed a taxi driver at knife point.

The driver, aged 40, picked up a fare in Back Lane South, Worcester, at around 1.30pm on Monday, April 24.

He was assaulted with a knife while two offenders stole money from the front of the car and made off in the direction of Moor Street.

The driver was slashed across the hand while trying to defend himself against the men.

He was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for treatment and was later discharged.

Detective Inspector John Cashion said: "This is a despicable incident that has left the driver understandably shaken, and will not be tolerated.

"We would like to speak to anyone with information that could help us find the two men responsible or if anyone saw anything suspicious in Back Lane South area in the hours of yesterday afternoon."

The first offender is described as a black man, believed to be in his 20s, around 5ft 10 ins and 6ft in height, of a large build, clean shaven. He was wearing a light blue long sleeved hooded top.

The second offender is described as a black man, also believed to be in his 20s, between 5 ft 6 ins and 5ft 7 ins in height, of a slim build. He was also wearing a similar light blue long sleeved hooded top.

The driver is understood to work for Worcester firm Central Taxis, based at the Shrub Hill Industrial Estate.

Lesley Borthwick, of the Worcester Taxi Drivers Association, said: "I think it is absolutely appalling.

"Somebody is just trying to do their job, they have got family at home and mortgages and everything.

"Nobody deserves to be attacked like that. I would ask anybody if they do know who it was to come forward and let's hope the culprits are found."

Yesterday, a 29-year-old man from Worcester and a 23-year-old man from Evesham were arrested on suspicion of robbery in connection.

They have been released under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call West Mercia Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website, quoting incident number 324s of 24 April.