A TAXI driver who was awarded compensation after being attacked by a drunken passenger says he will give the cash to charity.

Fakher Amin, 39, who trades as Keadby Cabs, was subjected to the violent attack by John Dent in the early hours of February 13.

Dent was this week ordered by North Lincolnshire magistrates to pay Mr Amin £75 compensation after admitting a common assault charge.

Speaking after the case, Mr Amin, who suffered cuts and bruises after the assault, said he was pleased with the outcome.

And he added: "I am going to give all the money to charity. It will probably go to the Lindsey Lodge Hospice."

The latest assault took place when Mr Amin picked up Dent on Oswald Road and took him to an address on Barnetby Road, the court heard.

"He was a young lad – he looked all right. He didn't look a dangerous guy," Mr Amin said.

But, when they got to the destination, Dent started swearing at him when asked for the £6.90 fare.

He then punched Mr Amin on the jaw, tried to rip out his meter and then kicked him on the shin when the men spilled out of the cab.

Dent, of Holme Hall Avenue, Scunthorpe, was given a 12-month community order at North Lincolnshire Magistrates' Court with the requirement he carries out 60 hours unpaid work.

Dent's solicitor David Rix told magistrates his client felt deeply remorseful for his behaviour.

Dent, he said, had been drinking heavily that night and could not recall the incident.

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