A MAN smashed a taxi window with his crutch when the driver refused to unlock the doors.

Blackburn magistrates heard Glen Bowers was concerned because his partner thought she was pregnant and was desperate to get out of the vehicle.

She eventually climbed out of the broken window and opened the door for her partner.

Bowers, 41, of Laithe Street, Burnley, pleaded guilty to criminal damage and failing to comply with requirements of a community order.

The old order was revoked and he was made subject to a new order for 12 months with 15 days' rehabilitation and 60 hours' unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £300 compensation to the taxi driver, £85 costs and £95 victim surcharge.

Deputy District Judge Arlegh Davies said the starting point was immediate custody but she had taken into account he had been drug free since July and now had accommodation.

"I am taking the view it is better to build on some of the work that has been done and give you one last opportunity," she added.

Gareth Hughes, prosecuting, said the taxi driver took Bowers and his partner to their destination where he explained the doors would be opened when the fare was paid.

"The defendant pulled out a £10 note but when the driver reached for it he pulled it away," said Mr Hughes.

"He then used a crutch to break the window on the passenger side and the female climbed out and opened the door for him."

Mr Hughes said police were called and when they spoke to Bowers he admitted smashing the window.

"The cost of repair was £250 and the driver estimates he lost £50 in earnings," said Mr Hughes.

Ian Huggan, defending, said there had been a dispute with the driver because he had locked the doors and the defendant's partner who was unwell was desperate to get out.

Mr Huggan said Bowers was living in Blackburn at the time after moving to get away from negative influences.

"He and his partner spent a considerable amount of time living in a tent such was his determination to change his life," said Mr Huggan.

"He has now managed to obtain accommodation and, equally as important, he has managed to get himself clean of drugs for the first time in many years."