Kate Johnston (49) said she and her partner got into the black taxi in Bradbury Place in south Belfast early yesterday, after a rare night out. The taxi broke down on Grosvenor Road on their way back to the Shankill area and police said the driver asked the couple to get out and give him a push.

But when the car started again, he drove off, leaving the couple stranded. Ms Johnston, who is recovering from breast cancer, has an implant called a stimulation system fitted in her side to alleviate pain.