A TAXI driver had part of his ear "bitten off" in an alleged fight outside a workingmen's club.

Jahganeer Ahmed, 36, was injured when he went to pick up a fare outside Queen's Park WMC, Audley Range, Blackburn.

The incident occurred while 70 parents and youngsters from a dance group were enjoying a private Hallowe'en party in an upstairs room.

Police said Mr Ahmed, a driver with Arcade Private Hire, Crossfield Street, would require cosmetic surgery after the lower portion of his left ear was severed. It has not been found.

The taxi driver was taken to Blackburn Infirmary, at around 11.30pm on Saturday.

Two men, aged 38 and 16, have been questioned in connection with the incident and released on police bail.

Police have been reviewing CCTV footage from the club and interviewing witnesses.

Inspector Stuart Bruce said:"There were a lot of people around that area at the time who may think the incident has been dealt with. But we need to talk to as many people as we can, so we want people to come forward."

No-onefrom Arcade Private Hire would comment.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Blackburn CID on 01254 353569 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

l In an unconnected incident, a 35-year-old man was to appear in court today in connection with attacks on three women, one of which led to a woman allegedly having her tongue bitten off. Andrew Humphries, of London, was due to appear before Blackpool magistrates today.