A WOMAN was sexually assaulted by a taxi driver after a night out in Rossendale.

Police said she got into the taxi outside the Rhythm Station night club in New Hall Hey Road, Rawtenstall.

The man drove her home and propositioned the victim for sex before grabbing her. It happened at about 2am on Sunday.

The victim managed to fight off the driver before running to her house and called police.

A police spokesman said: “We have received a report of a sexual assault and an investigation is ongoing.”

Vincent Hardman, 52, who owns the Rhythm Station, said: “I heard that one of my patrons had been attacked and it is very worrying to hear as the safety of my customers is paramount.

"I have employed double the amount of security staff than any other manager has done here previously because I want my customers to have a fun night out, free from drugs and violence.

“I even try to marshall the taxis picking up my customers to make sure they all get home safely.

“It is shocking to hear of an incident like this as it does not happen very often. I hope the victim is okay.”

A spokesman from Rossendale Council, which deals with all taxi licensing issues, said: “When we have all the details the council will take the appropriate action.

"In cases of alleged sexual assault the driver would normally have his or her taxi licence suspended pending further investigations.

"Public safety is our top priority in all taxi licensing matters.”