CARJACKERS who attacked a police van in Whitefield then stole a van with an 82-year-old woman in the passenger seat.

Police began following the gang's white Ford Escort on Wednesday after spotting it in Park Lane.

The men threw a wheel brace at the patrol van, smashing a window. A man then got out and hit it with a machete.

The gang then forced a 50-year-old bystander to give up his van and drove off with his mother still inside.

The pensioner was sitting in the passenger seat as they drove off towards Heaton Park in the orange Fiat vehicle.

Police gave chase but were forced to stop when another object was thrown at them and became caught under their van's wheels.

The stolen van was found abandoned at Heywood Gardens, Prestwich, with the old woman safe and well.

Chief Supt Garry Shewan said: "I cannot over-emphasise the bravery shown by this lady who, despite being put through a terrifying ordeal, remained calm and alert and has been able to assist the police.

"The officers did everything they could to try and bring these offenders to justice and despite being attacked and threatened they were only prevented from doing so when they physically were stopped in their tracks."

Witnesses are urged to contact police or Crimestoppers.