Appeal after passenger assaulted by taxi driver.

DETECTIVES investigating an assault by a taxi driver on his female passenger in Newcastle have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

The attack happened in the early hours of Saturday, November 29, when a 53-year-old woman left Grey's Nightclub in the city centre and got into a taxi at Grey Street at around 2.15am.

There was a dispute over the fare and the taxi driver stopped on Beaconsfield Street, where he pulled the woman from the taxi and kicked her. He then drove off, leaving her distressed and injured on the pavement in freezing conditions.

As she lay at the roadside, a passing taxi driver came to her aid, taking her home without charge. She sought medical help and was found to have suffered a broken arm and bruising.

The taxi she got into was a darkcoloured saloon car and the driver is described as being of medium build, having dark hair, an olive complexion and a foreign accent.

Det Const Ant James, leading the investigation, said: "This was an ordeal for the woman involved resulting in her suffering a broken arm as a result of the assault.

"Newcastle's taxi drivers have an excellent reputation and the vast majority are trustworthy and will ensure you get home safely.

"However, this isolated assault was quite nasty and it's important we trace him so we can ensure he's brought to justice.

"So far we've carried out a number of inquiries, including tracing witnesses and checking CCTV footage, and we are now seeking the assistance of the community and taxi companies."

Police need to speak to the taxi driver who came to the victim's aid, as he may have information which will help the inquiry. They would also like to speak to anyone else who may have information on the attack.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0345 604-3043 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.