A TAXI driver was robbed by knifemen after being lured into an apparent ambush.

The driver, a 58-year-old man, had gone to pick up a fare in Scarborough when two men in balaclavas got into his blue Citroen Berlingo and threatened him with a knife.

They stole his takings then fled, leaving the driver unhurt but shaken.

North Yorkshire Police said the robbery happened at 7.20pm on Tuesday on Gildercliffe. 

The robbers were both white and in their 20s, police said. One was around 5ft 7in tall with a medium build. The other was around 5ft 11in tall with a slim build.

Detective Sergeant Ken Proctor, of Scarborough CID, said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the Gildercliffe area of Scarborough at around 7.20pm on Tuesday to get in touch.

“I would particularly like to hear from anyone who saw a blue Beeline taxi or two men matching the description of the suspects.

“If you have any information about this incident or can help to identify the suspects, please contact the police or Crimestoppers.”

Anyone who can help police is asked to phone Scarborough CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 12140027110.