A search has been launched for three men after a taxi driver was seriously assaulted and racially abused in Coatbridge. 

The 55-year-old taxi driver was hospitalised after sustaining serious injuries to his head and hands. 

The assault took place around 2.50am on Sunday, July 12 on Viewfield Road at its junction with Dunnachie Drive. 

Two men in their 20s were dropped off by the taxi-driver involved on Viewfield Road, where a third man was waiting for them. 

READ MORE: Man arrested in connection with serious assault in Glasgow

After one of the passengers got out of the taxi, the other proceeded to racially abuse and assault the driver. 

The driver was taken to Monklands Hospital for treatment. 

The three men ran away in the direction of the Kirkwood Sports Barn.

Officers have launched a search to trace the three men in connection with the assault. 

The first man, one of the passengers, is described as being of a medium build, speaks with a Scottish accent. At the time of the assault was wearing a navy blue t-shirt, dark jogging bottoms, dark trainers with a dark coloured cap and a surgical style face mask.

The second man, also a passenger, is described as having short hair, also speaks with a Scottish accent and at the time was wearing a dark sleeved top and dark jogging bottoms.

The last man, who was waiting on Viewfield Road was dressed all in dark clothing.

Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 0745 of Sunday, 12 July.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be passed on anonymously.