A MAN climbed through a taxi window and did a runner when he and the driver realised he did not have enough money to pay his fare.

Blackburn magistrates heard that Paul George Brown panicked because he thought the driver was calling his friends and feared he may get a beating.

Brown, 22, of Gloucester Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to making off without payment.

He was remanded in custody until April 24 when he is due to be dealt with for other matters and when the magistrates will have the benefit of a pre-sentence report.

Lisa Worsley, prosecuting, said the driver had stopped the vehicle, automatically locking the doors.

Brown made a grab for the door handle and then climbed out of the window before running off.

When interviewed he said he thought he had £3 when he got into the taxi but then realised he had no money.

Ian Huggan, defending, said Brown had suggested to the driver that he took him to his mother's address where he would be able to get the money.

"At that point the doors were locked and he panicked, said Mr Huggan. "He has been the victim of an assault in the past when he was locked in a vehicle and it is significant that he made no attempt to run away from the police officers."