AN elderly man mown down in the road as he attempted to stop two thieves stealing his car is still recovering in hospital. Albert Dearden, aged 67, was knocked over the bonnet of his Rover Metro when it was deliberately driven at him.

Mr Dearden, of Glynn Street, Farnworth, suffered a head injury and this lunchtime was still detained in Bolton General Hospital. A spokesman described his condition as "fairly comfortable."

The incident happened on Saturday when Mr Dearden got out of his car to park it in a garage in Lonsdale Grove, Farnworth. Two men then emerged from the shadows and jumped into the vehicle and started to drive away.

Mr Dearden ran into the road in an effort to stop the thieves but was mown down.

The car was later abandoned in nearby Trentham Avenue.

Detectives say the thieves could have killed Mr Dearden.

Police appealed for witnesses or anyone who can help with inquiries to contact Bolton Central CID, tel: 0161 872 5050.

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