A man suffered severe facial injuries after being slashed across the face with a screwdriver as he chased thieves who tried to steal his car.

Detectives are now hunting a man and woman, who were with a Staffordshire bull terrier, who fled from the scene after being caught red-handed by the 24-year-old car owner.

The victim returned to his home in the Grapnells area of Pitsea on Tuesday night at around 11pm when he noticed the couple walking their dog down a cul-de-sac.

He kept an eye on them after he went into his house and saw the man trying to break into his car.

He ran out of his home, confronted the would-be thief who then ran off, with his partner and dog.

The car owner gave chase but further down the road the man turned around and hit the victim across the face.

The pursuit continued briefly until the victim realised blood was streaming down his face.

Anyone with information should call either Pitsea CID on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously,on 0800 555111

Published Thursday, May 29, 2003

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