Car and dog stolen by opportunistic thief

A man’s car and dog were stolen when he left his keys in the ignition of his car at a recycling centre in Middleton.

Shortly after 5.10pm on Saturday 1 March 2014, a 51-year-old man was taking some bags to a skip at the Virdor waste recycling plant at Spring Vale, when a car thief jumped into his silver Kia Venga, registration LD62 ENF.

The keys to the car were left in the ignition so the offender drove off with the victim’s car and dog, which was inside.

The victim tried to stop the thief from driving off and in doing so was hit by the vehicle and dragged a short distance along the road.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to bruising to his leg and head.

The dog was found abandoned a short time later and returned to the man.

The car has now also been recovered.

Detective Constable Charlie Stewart, said: “The man had turned his back for a second when this opportunistic thief jumped in and sped off.

“In trying to prevent him getting away the man suffered some quite painful injuries and we are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the offender to call us.

“The one piece of good news is the man’s dog was quickly returned to him and his car has also since been recovered.

“I would like to take the opportunity to remind people to never leave car keys in an ignition while you are away from your vehicle, even if it is for just a few seconds, because as this incident shows, a thief can strike in the blink of an eye.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8701, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.