A TAXI driver was left stranded on the moors above Burnley in the middle of the night after a thief stole his takings and cab.

The driver's ordeal began at 12.15am today when he picked up a fare outside Planet Pizza in Croft Street opposite Burnley bus station.

He was asked to drive to Crawshawbooth but then instructed to take a "short cut'' up Crown Point Road.

The passenger then said he wanted to get out at a lay-by. As soon as the vehicle stopped the robber ran round to the driver's door, threatened him and ordered him to get out.

The taxi was then driven off and another car which had been in the lay-by was also driven away at the same time leaving the taxi man, a 29-year-old Nelson man a mile from the nearest main road.

As the driver was walking back towards the Bull and Butcher in Manchester Road a motorist picked him up and rang for help on his mobile phone.

The vehicle, a Vauxhall Cavalier belonging to Red Rose Taxis, was later found burnt out on the Long Causeway, Cliviger.

The offender is described as white, 35 years, 5ft 9ins tall, of muscular build, shaven head. He was wearing a yellow T-shirt, blue jeans and brown boots.

Police want to speak to two people who were in a Vauxhall Frontera on the lay-by to eliminate them from the inquiry. They also may have information about the incident.

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

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