THE taxi driver who was left for dead in an attack in Brierley Hill has made a heartfelt plea for more help to stop driver attacks from happening again.

Mohammed Ahmed, of Old Hill, was beaten up by a group of men who fled, leaving nearby residents to raise the alarm on Sunday night.

The 60-year-old victim, who works for the Brierley Hill-based Newline Taxis, was taken to Russells Hall Hospital in a critical condition after suffering a fractured skull, but he has since started his recovery.

Mr Ahmed said: “I’m very humbled by the support and care shown by not only the (Dudley Private Hire and Taxi) Association, but also the public.

“I had messages from the leader of the council Pete Lowe and MP Margot James of Stourbridge. My family appreciates all the support in this very shocking time.

“I'm suffering from internal injuries and amnesia due to the attack and, as of yet, I’m struggling to remember many parts of my life, which is heart-breaking.

“I plead with the council and police to support drivers more and prevent this happening again to anyone!”

Mr Ahmed said he had little memory of what happened, but could recall a group of men arguing with him about why he could not pick them up in Bell Street South, shortly before 9.30pm.

Shaz Saleem, chairman of the taxi association, said: “Mr Ahmed is a very strong minded person and has a heart of gold; this is a shocking incident and one which I hope will be an eye opener.

“Our drivers do an incredible job, we are not always given appreciation for our efforts. Our drivers work extremely hard to provide the best service, a service that I strongly believe is one of the best in the Midlands.

“However, we strongly urge the council and police to support us in re-starting taxi watch and to ensure the safety of our drivers.

“I want to thank the residents who were on scene to help Mr Ahmed and I applaud the support shown.”

Witnesses, or anyone with information about the attack, should call West Midlands Police on 101.