Leeds workman was struck on head by van as he tried stop thief driving off

Raiders struck as two workmen were carrying out contracted work on the driveway of a house on Moorland Close at around 3.30pm on Wednesday.

Two male suspects arrived in a white 55 plate Ford Connect van. One stole an orange Stihl Saw from the roadside as the second stole the contractors’ beige Fiat Ducato van.

One of the workmen, a 32-year-old man, attempted to stop the Fiat being stolen. He was struck on the head by the vehicle and was knocked in to the road, sustaining serious but not life-threatening injuries.

He was taken to hospital for treatment, and was late released.

The suspects made off in both vehicles. The Fiat Ducato was found abandoned on Well House Drive, Gledhow, a short time later. Call Leeds District CID with information on 101.

Det Cons Sarah Banks of Leeds District, CID said: “Thankfully, the victim was not more seriously injured, however the results could have been far worse.

“I am appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Equally, I would urge anyone who may have seen the 55 plate white Ford Connect in the area, on the day, or days leading up the incident to come forward. It is believed that the vehicle may have some damage to the front of the passenger side.

“There are presently a number of workmen in the area, so it may not have seemed unusual to see this kind of van, however the vehicle or its occupants may have been seen acting suspiciously.

“The stolen Fiat Ducato was located swiftly after the incident, I am sure that someone will have seen this vehicle being driven by one of the suspects, around the area, or may have seen the suspects abandon the vehicle in Well House Drive, and I would ask them to also come forward with any information. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Sarah Banks at Leeds District CID via 101.