POLICE are hunting a gunman who threatened a taxi driver and has been linked with two other incidents in York.

The driver had been waiting at a red light on Haxby Road in York when a man jumped into the back of his car and asked for a lift. When he refused, the suspect showed him a firearm, or imitation firearm, before demanding money.

The taxi driver continued driving for a short period of time, while sounding the car horn, until he reached Exhibition Square where he left the vehicle and ran down Bootham.

North Yorkshire Police believe the alarming crime was linked to two other incidents which happened about the same time, between 11.30pm on Sunday night and 12.30am on Monday morning in York.

The second incident occurred on Burton Stone Lane a short time later when a man in his early 20s was approached by a man. He was punched in the face causing him to fall to the ground.

The third incident happened when a man attempted to break-into a house on Thorpe Street. The man was disturbed by the occupants and other residents and quickly left the scene.

The man officers would like to speak to in connection with this incident is described as white with a tanned complexion, with stubble and of slim build. It is believed he is aged in his 20s.

Nothing was taken during either incident.

A number of witnesses have been spoken to about the incidents but officers are keen to speak with anyone else who may have information on either of the offences.

Anyone who saw something suspicious in the area around the time the offences took place or who was driving and may have captured vital evidence on a dash-cam, or own a private CCTV system, is asked to inform police.

Enquiries, including CCTV and other forensics, are currently being carried out as a matter of urgency.

Anyone who can assist with this investigation is asked to contact officers quoting reference 12170083254.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.