A taxi driver injured three passengers when he deliberately reversed at them during a row in the early hours, a court heard.

After Ahbabur Rahman struck friends Remmi Sexton, Grace Dilley and Joe Glenister, he ignored screams and drove off in the black cab, it was alleged.

The trio had been out drinking in Maidstone town centre and asked the 47-year-old cabbie to take them to Vinters Park at about 4.30am on September 29 last year.

On the way, Miss Sexton and Mr Glenister had a heated argument and there was then disagreement over the fare, Maidstone Crown Court was told.

Prosecutor Ian Foinette said because of the argument Miss Sexton asked Rahman to stop in Bedgebury Close and let her out. He did so and Mr Glenister followed her.

The others also got out and £10 was handed to the driver for the £7 fare.

"It seems there was some sort of argument going on with the driver," said Mr Foinette.

"There was shouting. At one stage, the taxi driver and Grace Dilley were more or less face to face.

"He got back in. Those behind saw the reversing lights come on the taxi. He then reversed back at speed some 12-15ft and hit the three.

"They were all knocked over. Remmi Sexton hit her head on the ground. After hitting them the defendant moved forward and just drove off fast away from the scene.

"One person described the engine not only revving but also the tyres squealing."

Mr Foinette told the jury of eight women and four men: "It must have been blindingly obvious to the defendant he had reversed into them and hit them.

"Screaming around the back of the taxi must have told him something had happened.

"One person described the engine not only revving but also the tyres squealing..." - prosecutor Ian Foinette

"The Crown say this was a deliberate act by him, annoyed perhaps by what was going on in the back of the taxi and afterwards.

"In a fit of pique he decided he was going to show them he was the boss."

An ambulance was called and injuries were treated in hospital.

Rahman, of Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, denies two charges of assault causing actual bodily harm, one of assault by beating and dangerous driving.

He claims he did not get out of the cab and did not reverse it.

The trial continues.