A TAXI was stolen by a passenger when the driver left the vehicle to pick up some food.

The grey Toyota Corolla, F756 KCU, was being driven past the Brunshaw Hotel in Brunshaw Road, Burnley, at 3am on Saturday when it was flagged down.

A 6ft tall white man, slim, with close-shaven light brown hair asked to be taken to Colne.

The driver continued towards the town centre and stopped to pick up food from the Touch of Spice takeaway.

He left the engine running as he called into the shop.

Detective Sergeant Steve Mounsey said: "He then turned round to see the vehicle being driven away by the passenger."

The thief was wearing a black leather jacket and blue jeans and was said to be of a general tidy appearance. He spoke with a local accent.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Burnley CID on 01282 425001.

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