Man assaulted by suspected thief in Telford

The victim, a 30 year-old man, was on his way out at around 6am on Monday when he realised he had left something at home.

He popped back to his home address in Birch Tree Close in Madeley and parked his car on the drive. He left the keys in the ignition and the engine running while he popped back into his property.

Moments later he heard someone on the driveway and ran out to his vehicle to find an unknown man leaning in the vehicle through driver's door.

The victim asked the man what he was doing and pulled him away. He was then assaulted by the suspect who punched him to the face and ran away.

The victim chased after him and turned right onto Station Road and along an alleyway that leads onto Silkin Way. At this point the victim turned back, realising he had left his door open.

He suffered swelling and bruising to his face but did not require medical treatment.

A Telford Police spokeswoman said: "It appears the suspect was an opportunist and saw the vehicle and decided to take a closer look.

"He was spotted however by the owner, who gave chase. He did not manage to steal anything.

"Although it was early in the morning we are hoping that somebody saw something suspicious and will be able to help police with their enquiries. Silkin Way can be busy with people going to work and we are hopeful that somebody may have seen the suspect running away.

"If you did, then please call us on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

The suspect is described as a white male, aged in his 30's and of medium build. He was wearing a black hooded top and dark coloured bottoms.

The spokeswoman added: "We would also like to remind people to be vigilant at all times. Unfortunately opportunist thieves do operate in our communities so please make it harder for them by securing all vehicles and homes, even if you are only away for a short time."