POLICE forensic experts say they are hopeful the results of a fingertip search on a taxi in which the driver was throttled and then torched will move their investigation forward.

Detectives believe the evidence will be crucial in building up a detailed picture of the attack, which happened early on Monday.

The attack left 52-year-old Derek Fletcher suffering severe burns after he was attacked when he picked up a fare from a telephone box in Eastleigh.

The assailant first wrapped a rope around Mr Fletcher's neck, pulling it tight until the married cabbie passed out, and then pour accelerant onto his lap, lit it and left him for dead.

Police hunting the attacker say they have already interviewed a number of people in connection with the incident.

Mr Fletcher was still in a satisfactory condition in the burns unit at Salisbury's Odstock Hospital.

Police are looking for a man who is described as white, thin, gaunt looking, close shaven and wearing a dark hooded top.