A motorist was run over as he tried to stop a thief stealing his car and pet dog.

The 51-year-old man was dropping off bags at a Middleton recycling centre in Greater Manchester when he was targeted by the brazen crook.

The victim left the keys in the ignition of his Kia Venga while throwing rubbish away, and when he returned to the vehicle moments later, a man was in the passenger seat.

The owner’s pet dog was still inside the Kia at the time. As he tried to stop the thief from driving off he was dragged a short distance along the road, injuring his leg and head.

The offender then fled in the car.

The raid took place at Viridor waste recycling plant at Spring Vale, Middleton on Saturday evening.

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, from Greater Manchester Police, 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 should call police on 0161 856 8701, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.