Cabbie a key witness to mass brawl

POLICE say a taxi driver could hold the key to solving an investigation on a mass brawl outside an Oldham pub.

The cabbie picked up a man after the fracas outside the Litten Tree pub, Yorkshire Street at around 2.15am, a week last Friday.

Officers were called after between eight and 10 people became embroiled in a fight.

It resulted in a 26-year-old man receiving facial injuries. He was taken to the Royal Oldham Hospital for treatment.

A 25-year-old woman was also harmed, receiving a cut to the face. She was also taken to hospital and has now been discharged.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has been bailed until October 10, pending further inquiries.

Police launched an appeal for witnesses following the assault.

However, further inquiries and CCTV footage have established that the main offender was seen getting into a white taxi after the fight and leaving the scene. He is described as white, in his mid-20s and of large build.

The taxi appears to be a Ford Mondeo with yellow circular badges on the rear doors. Inquiries with local taxi firms have established that car is not registered to any Oldham companies.

Officers are now keen to speak to the taxi driver and are appealing for him, or anyone else with information, to come forward.

Det Cons Mark Tiffany, based at Oldham CID, said: “This taxi driver could be the key to unlocking this investigation and it is vital we speak to him.

“We believe he may have seen the entire incident unfold and may also shed some light on who the main offender was.

“I would ask this driver, if he is reading or hearing about this appeal, to call us immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Oldham CID on 0161 856 8951 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.