A TAXI driver was forced to hand over his mobile phone and cash after a masked man got into his cab and threatened him with a knife.

At around 12.30am on Monday the taxi driver was waiting for a fare on Talbot Street in Burnley when he was approached by a man who opened the passenger door and sat down in the car.

The man, who had approached from Ormerod Road was wearing a mask and carrying a knife.

He threatened the driver and forced him to hand over his mobile phone and £70 in cash. He then ran-away towards Brown Square in the direction of the canal, leaving the victim uninjured. Detectives are now investigating and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Det Con Phil Scott, of Burnley CID, said: “We have launched an investigation following a knifepoint robbery in Burnley.

"Did you see what happened, or see anyone acting unusually in the area around the time of the offence? Please come forward if you can help with our enquiries.”

Call 01282472932 quoting log 0056 of May 27.