AN East Lancashire taxi driver has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on two women.

The 32-year-old man, who lives in Accrington and works in Clitheroe, was arrested after allegations of sexual assault were made on two separate occasions.

On Friday May 21, he picked up a 21-year-old woman in Henthorn Road, Clitheroe and then allegedly tried to sexually touch her.

Police said the woman managed to break free and run off and she reported the incident the following morning.

The second incident involving an 18-year-old woman is alleged to have taken place in Whalley Road between 3.30am and 5.15am on Saturday, May 22, where the man has allegedly tried to sexually assault her.

Police said the woman was able to get out of the taxi and escape.

She reported the incident to police the following afternoon.

Officers from Clitheroe police arrested the man at 3.25am on Tuesday.

He was then questioned by Clitheroe CID before being released on police bail until June 10.

Detective Constable Will Biggar, of Ribble Valley CID, said: “Incidents like this are extremely rare and we would always urge anyone who has concerns to contact the police immediately.”

A spokesman for Ribble Valley Borough Council said: “We have only just been made aware of the matter and are looking into it.”