CARJACKERS are being hunted by police after knocking down a good Samaritan with his own car.

The victim was tricked into stopping his Honda CR-V when the gang launched their attack.

They acted out a scene of distress in the middle of the road, and when the 37-year-old pulled over to help he was punched and dragged from his car. The gang then drove the car towards him, knocking him over the bonnet, before speeding off.

The silver Honda was later found burnt out two miles away.

The attack happened as the man was driving home towards Cowpen Bewley, along Cowpen Lane, Billingham, Teesside, at 11.10pm on Tuesday.

Detective Sergeant John Scott, of Stockton CID, said: "This was a good Samaritan whose actions have been rewarded with an horrendous attack.

"All four men joined in on the attack. They then got into the victim's car and drove a short way up the road. They did a U-turn and drove straight at the victim.

"When he saw his own car heading for him at speed, he tried to dive out of the way but, unfortunately, the car caught him and flipped him over the bonnet."

The victim received non life-threatening injuries, including cuts and bruises, and was detained overnight at the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton.

Det Sgt Scott is appealing for anyone who saw the men abandon the car to get in touch.

The four white men are thought to be from the local area. Two are thought to be in their twenties and the others in their thirties or forties.

Witnesses are asked to call police on (01642) 302226, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.