A TAXI driver had his takings stolen after being assaulted by two passengers in Padiham.

Detectives are appealing for information after the incident which saw the driver punched in the face.

The two men caught a taxi from Burnley Road, in Accrington, at around 2.12am on Saturday January 28, and asked to be taken to Hapton Street, in Padiham.

However they then asked to be dropped off on Hambledon Street, Padiham. As they left the vehicle, one of the men punched the driver and ran off with his takings.

Detective Constable Ash Johnston, from Burnley CID, said the taxi driver had been left “shaken” by his ordeal.

He said: “I would appeal to anyone who has information about this attack to come forward and contact the police.

“CCTV images have been release of a man we would like to speak to in connection with this incident. I would appeal direct for that man to come or if anyone recognises who he is then I would urge them to get in touch.

“Understandably, the taxi driver has been left shaken following his ordeal and officers are offering him support.”

Anyone with information can call Burnley CID on 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org.

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.