And, despite being arrested for that offence, Thomason, of Clare Road, Halifax, did the same thing three days later.

The 26-year-old pleaded guilty to two counts of making off without payment when he appeared in front of Calderdale magistrates.

Robert Stevenson, prosecuting, said: "Thomason attended Bradford South police station to report his wallet stolen and they arranged a taxi for him back to Todmorden.

"When they arrived he was told it would be £40 fare, he told the driver he would return with the money shortly but never came back."

Thomason was arrested and admitted the charge but three days later ran off after clocking up a £31.50 fare to Todmorden.

Richard Brown, for Thomason, said: "I cannot imagine a more stupid offence and there was no way on earth he was going to get away with this.

"But it was not pre-planned as nobody in their right mind would give all their details and ask them to phone a taxi for him and then evade the fare."

Thomason was given a 10-week curfew order and ordered to pay £71.50 compensation and £60 costs.