Appeal after elderly woman dragged from vehicle in Rochdale

Officers are appealing for information after an elderly woman's car was stolen after she was dragged from her vehicle in Rochdale yesterday (10 November 2021).

Just before 8.20pm last night, officers were called to a report of a robbery on Tesco car park on Silk Street in Rochdale.

A 78-year-old woman was grabbed and dragged out of her orange Toyota Aygo by a male who made off in her vehicle towards Manchester Road. Thankfully, the woman wasn't injured.

The suspect is described as white, aged between 16 and 18, around 5ft 2 or 3 inches and was wearing a surgical mark, grey sweat pants and a dark top.

Inspector Paul Mason, from Rochdale neighbourhood district, said: "This was a terrifying ordeal for an elderly woman who was simply doing her shopping and officers immediately launched an investigation and have been carrying out a number of lines of enquiry.

"Thankfully, she didn't suffer any injuries but is understandably distressed and we're doing all we can to find whoever was responsible and locate her vehicle.

"The woman's vehicle is a distinct colour - orange - and we would ask anyone who may have seen it to contact us. Anyone witnesses to the robbery taking place or anyone who may recognise the male described should also contact us - even the smallest bit of information may help with our investigation.

"Anyone with information should report it online at www.gmp.police.uk quoting log number 2816 of 10/11/2021. Alternatively, call 0161 856 8549 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."