Taxi driver sprayed with mystery liquid

A taxi driver was sprayed in the face with a mystery liquid.

The assault happened on Edenfield Road at about 11.45pm on 14 August.

The driver picked up the offender and was told to drive to Norden. The victim asked for three pounds before he drove off, and when the offender said he had no money he leant over and sprayed the driver in the face with an unknown liquid before running off.

The driver did not suffer any serious injuries.

The offender is described as white, 18 or 19 years old, 5ft 7in to 5ft 8in tall and with short black hair. He was wearing a dark blue T-shirt with tracksuit bottoms.

Police are now appealing to anyone who has information about the attack to come forward.

Police Sergeant Phil Barlow said: "This driver was innocently going about his job when he was attacked for no reason other than a disagreement over a £3 fare.

"Drivers do face risks every time they pick up a passenger, particularly those who have had a drink, but this was a completely senseless attack that could have blinded the victim if the liquid had been dangerous.

"The offender must have been carrying this spray around with him and must have planned to use it, so he is clearly someone we need to apprehend.

"I would appeal to anyone who has information about this incident to call us."

Anyone with information should call 0161 856 8420 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.