A man has been jailed for an indeterminate period for a brutal attack on a defenceless taxi driver in Kent.

Driver Gordon Bailey, of Gravesend, was left with serious facial injuries after the assault.

It happened after the 64-year-old picked up a fare in Gravesend and took him and a companion to Paddock Wood.

That fare was Mark Heanan, 23, of Edenbridge.

As the taxi reached its destination in July last year, Heanan climbed into the front of the taxi and demanded the keys.

Mr Bailey refused and was attacked by Heanan, who punched and kicked his victim. The yob then ran from the scene with the taxi takings for the evening.

Heanan admitted a charge of wounding with intent when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday.

He will serve a minimum of three years, seven months and seven days.

Detective Sgt Miles Bishop said: "This was a vicious, prolonged and cowardly attack. Mr Bailey was in no position to defend himself yet Heanan continued the assault with the intention of causing him serious harm.

"Mr Bailey suffered serious injuries; it is to his credit that he has been able to assist our investigation and help us produce the evidence that has put Heanan behind bars."

• For the full story see your Gravesend Messenger on Wednesday.