A man from Sandwell, who threatened a terrified taxi driver with a pistol after a row over a fare, has been jailed for 16 months.

Alex Williams had left his mobile telephone as security with the driver after travelling with him from Birmingham while he went into his home at Chester Rise, Oldbury, to get some money.

But, returning to the vehicle, he threatened the driver with a blank-firing gun, which resembled an 8mm pistol, and demanded the return of his mobile, Wolverhampton Crown Court heard.

The 24-year-old admitted possessing the imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Howard Searle, prosecuting, said Williams had given the driver his mobile and £5 while he went into the house but then produced the handgun.

The frightened driver feared it was real and felt extremely scared before watching Williams return to his home.

The police were alerted and firearms officers recovered the starting pistol and a blank cartridges.

James Mitchell, defending, said it had been agreed with the driver that Williams would get the balance of the money he owed but he claimed the man then wanted extra cash.

Williams bitterly regretted his actions which had been “totally out of character,” he added.