Warrant issued after Friends star 'lookalike' fails to turn up to court

A "lookalike" of Friends star David Schwimmer, who was due in court to face charges of theft and fraud has failed to turn up.

Abdulah Husseni, who became an internet sensation when social media users pointed out his likeness to the American actor, had been expected to appear before Blackpool Magistrates Court.

But a warrant was issued for his arrest after he failed to turn up to court.

Mr Husseni's image was shared around the world when Blackpool Police posted an image which was alleged to show him leaving a restaurant carrying a carton of beer cans.

Schwimmer, who shot to fame playing Ross Geller in the hit US comedy Friends, responded to the social media attention by posting a copycat video showing him in the same pose, but denying he was responsible.

On the film posted on Twitter, Schwimmer wrote: "Officers, I swear it wasn't me. As you can see I was in New York. To the hardworking Blackpool Police, good luck with the investigation. #itwasntme

Mr Husseni from Slough was arrested by Lancashire Police last month and was due to appear at Blackpool Magistrates' Court on Tuesday morning.

He was accused of stealing a coat, wallet and phone from restaurant in Blackpool on 20 September.

However he failed to appear in court and District Judge, Jane Goodwin, issued a warrant not backed for bail.

The defendant had received instructions by post to come to the court for 9.30am.