A HUNT has been launched for a man who allegedly assaulted and racially abused a taxi driver.

The victim was driving four people when he pulled up at Coxford Road, Southampton, at some time between 12.35pm and 12.50pm.

The incident happened on June 15 but police have only now released details of what happened.

The front passenger then punched the driver a number of times and everyone got out of the car.

Police say the same passenger then racially abused the driver before all of the passengers ran into an alleyway.

He is described as being white, of a slim build, about six feet tall, aged 25 to 30, and had short brown hair with brown stubble on his face.

Anyone who knows who he is can call police on 101 and quote reference number 44170227542.