POLICE sealed off streets in the Duke Bar area of Burnley today amid unconfirmed reports of stabbings and violence in the area.

A taxi driver was taken to hospital after being smashed in the face with a hammer and several cars in the New Hall Street and Tunstill Street areas had windows smashed.

A blue Nissan Sunny car was left abandoned in the centre of Hurtley Street where there was a strong police presence today.

It is understood four people were taken to hospital following incidents at around 5am.

Detective Inspector Steve Chard, of Burnley, said police activity followed two incidents in the early hours.

He added: "It is too early to say anything else while inquiries are taking place.

"We need to know exactly what has happened and we expect to be able to make a statement later in the day."

New Hall Street resident Mohammed Ishtiaq said he and his girlfriend were awakened by loud bangs at around 5am and later saw police in the street.

"This morning I saw two cars outside my house had their windows smashed.

"No-one knows what is going on," he added.

A spokesman at Double Top Taxis, in Colne Road, said a driver from another cab firm came into his office shortly after 5am streaming with blood.

"He said he had been attacked by a gang and hit in the face with a hammer.

"We took him to hospital -- he was in a bad way."

Police maintained a heavy presence in the area throughout the morning, diverting traffic from several streets in the Duke Bar district.