A TAXI driver was punched and threatened with a knife by men who demanded money.

At 11.45pm on Thursday, March 17, two men flagged down a taxi on Highwood Lane, Loughton.

The men approached the taxi, one of them holding a bladed weapon, grabbed the driver and punched him while demanding money.

Both of the men are described as white, of medium build and between 20 and 22 years old.

One of the men was 5ft 8 ins tall, had dark stubble and was wearing a black hooded jacket with a white Nike logo across the front.

The other man was clean shaven and wore a dark coloured hooded top and jogging bottoms with three white stripes down the sides.

Pc Michael Penn said: "The victim has seen them on more than one occasion in the area wearing the same clothing. If you know who these people may be, please contact me."

Anyone with any information are asked to contact Pc Penn at Loughton police station on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.