A TAXI driver was brutally assaulted in Redditch on Friday night.

The driver collected a man in Drayton Close, Matchborough, at about 7pm and dropped him in Oxhill Close.

But the passenger made off towards Matchborough Centre without paying his fare.

The driver gave chase but lost him so he returned to his car.

He saw the man again, who was brandishing a piece of wood, using it to smash through the taxi's side window.

The driver got out of his car and the man kicked and punched him, causing a swollen eye and cut lip.

A police spokesman said: "We believe there were some youths around at the time and we would like them to contact us."

Anyone with information can call police on 08457 444 888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.