Armed robbery on taxi driver

The incident happened on Netherton Road about 1am on Wednesday 23rd January.

A taxi driver was called to the street to pick up the fare but when he arrived he was confronted by a man who demanded he hand over cash.

The suspect, who is described as wearing a deerstalker hat, snatched a small quantity of money before running off.

Detective Inspector Ash Wilson, who is leading on the case, urged anyone with any information to get in touch.

“The driver was badly shaken but he was not injured in the incident and did not have to go to hospital,” he said.

“We are thankful for this but nevertheless this is a very serious offence and we are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the suspected firearm.”

“We are appealing to anyone who may have seen what happened on the night or who has any further information to contact us immediately.”

Police put a cordon in place on Netherton Road on Wednesday while forensic enquiries are carried out at the scene.

Officers describe the suspect as white, about 5ft 9ins tall, and wearing a deerstalker hat with ear flaps.

Bassetlaw councillor and Manton resident Josie Potts said she was ‘disgusted’ and ‘ashamed’ to hear what had happened.

“I think is absolutely shameful. What are we coming to in this day and age when a man gets threatened with a gun?” she said.

“It makes you wonder what could have happened if the taxi driver put up a fight - it doesn’t bear thinking about.”

She added: “I am very glad he wasn’t hurt but I can imagine he is really shaken up and will be dreading going back to work.”

“We are a good community in Manton and I urge anyone who knows about it to speak up.”

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call DI Ash Wilson, at Worksop CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.