A WOMAN was injured when she fell out of a taxi after the angry driver suddenly sped away and then braked hard, throwing her on to the road.

Police are now hunting the driver following the incident in Glasgow city centre, which has left the woman with permanent damage to her front teeth and severe bruising.

The 23-year-old and two female friends were making their way home from a night out.

They hailed a black Hackney cab in Queen Street but, as the taxi drove along Stockwell Street towards the South Side, there was a disagreement between the passengers and the driver.

The women paid the fare and two got out.

But as the 23-year-old went to leave the vehicle, the taxi driver allegedly sped around the corner to Howard Street and braked suddenly. The woman fell out on to the road.

The driver did not stop and drove off towards the Broomielaw.

People passing helped the woman at the side of the road.

Police have issued a plea to trace the driver. The incident happened last Thursday, about 2am, and the man was described as Asian, aged 30- 35, with a "trimmed beard and moustache". He was wearing a dark shirt and a V-neck jumper.

Detective Constable Lyn Ferguson, of the city centre police office, said: "This was a terrifying experience for the woman.

"We are continuing extensive inquiries into the incident and would like to speak to anyone in Stockwell Street and Howard Street at that time or who went to the assistance of the woman."

The number to call is 0141 532 3000.

rebecca.gray@ heraldandtimes.co.uk