A WOMAN was left with a fractured cheekbone after being punched in the face during a row over who was getting in a taxi.

The 18-year-old was injured in the unprovoked attack at the Lock Mill service station in Bolton Road, Blackburn, as she tried to get into a cab.

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Police said the man punched her in the face before fleeing the scene with two other men.

The woman, who also sustained cuts and bruises, was treated for her injuries at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

Police said they believed the incident happened after an altercation between two separate groups.

The two groups are not thought to have known each other, but alcohol is believed to have played a part in fuelling the argument, in the early hours of Sunday, June 15, police said. The man is described as white, short with dark hair and wearing a white polo shirt at the time of the incident.

PC Garry Flanagan of Blackburn Police said: “This was a particularly nasty assault without provocation in which a young woman was left with a fractured cheekbone. The victim and her family are very frustrated that the offender has not yet been identified.

“We would like to speak to the man in the images in connection with our inquiries and would urge anyone who might have information to get in touch with police.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference number EA1415853. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org