A WOMAN delivery driver was left with grazes and bruises after holding onto her car as a thief attempted to drive it away.

The incident happened just after 12.10pm near the junction of Walmsley Road and Houghtons Lane in Eccleston last Thursday (July 10).

She had parked her car, a red Audi A4, with the engine running while she made a delivery.

A man jumped into the car and drove it away as she tried to stop him by grabbing hold of the passenger door.

He drove a short distance before stopping and running off towards Houghtons Lane.

He is described as white, around 6ft tall and with an athletic build. He was also wearing a pair of shorts.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who saw a man acting suspiciously in the area to get in touch.

DC Jeff Huxley said: "Merseyside Police takes incidents of this nature extremely seriously and we appeal to anyone with any information to come forward so we can take robust action against the person responsible.

"I would like to this opportunity to remind people that incidents such as this are rare, but if you find yourself victim to this type of crime make sure you put your own safety first, before that of your property.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have seen something, or who has information which could help us with our inquiries, to contact us."

An investigation into the full circumstances of the incident is ongoing.

Contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 6842 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.