A TAXI driver was punched several times by two men after he turned up late for a fare in Clitheroe.

Blackburn magistrates heard that after the attack Raja Khan used his car to form a barricade to stop Robert Mark Rodgers leaving in another taxi. He was attacked again and his car was kicked repeatedly.

Rodgers, 26, of Nelson Street, Clitheroe, pleaded guilty to assaulting Mr Khan and damaging his car. He was fined £350 and ordered to pay Mr Khan £500 compensation for the damage and loss of earnings and £60 costs.

Alison Heyworth, prosecuting, said Mr Khan had answered a call to an address in Whitewell Drive. As he was waiting outside Mr Khan noticed another taxi.

"At that point Rodgers, who Mr Khan knows as Irish Robby, came out of the house and said his taxi was late," said Ms Heyworth. "He then punched Mr Khan through the open window before getting in the other car."

Rodgers and another man got into the other taxi but as they tried to leave Mr Khan, who had sent for the police blocked their escape.

Debbie Morgan, defending, said Rodgers deeply regretted the incident. She said Rodgers maintained the taxi had been 45 minutes late and he had ordered another.

"He has always maintained that Mr Khan demanded money from him for his wasted journey," said Miss Morgan.