A TAXI driver was grabbed by the throat and punched in the head by robbers who stole just £20 in takings.

The 53-year-old cabbie had stopped in Yardeley, near Great Knightleys, Laindon, to pick up three men who were going to nearby Ballards Walk.

While he was driving, one of them turned violent and grabbed him by the throat.

The driver managed to pull over and get out, but he was set upon again by the men who punched him on the head.

As the terrified victim tried to run away, the robbers grabbed his money bag, containing £20, as well as his mobile phone and the keys to his cab.

Acting Insp Mark Rayner said: "This was an extremely frightening ordeal for the man, grabbing him around the throat could have easily caused an accident and then he was punched and robbed.

"We would like to speak to anyone who may know who these robbers are so we can find them and arrest them."

The attack has prompted renewed calls from the Basildon Taxi Proprietors Association for the council to fit all vehicles with CCTV.

Alan Isley, the association's chairman, said the council has secured a grant to fit up to 20 cars with the cameras, but more are needed to thwart attacks.

He said: "This must have been really frightening for the driver and it's out of order for just £20.

"There seems to be lots of this going on, but people seem to get violent when they've had a drink.

"Anyone who works a night shift as a taxi driver should definitely get CCTV, when people see those little cameras as they get into the car it does put them off."

Anyone with information about the latest attack can contact police at Basildon on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.