A MIDDLE-AGED woman was flung from the bonnet of her car while trying to stop a teenage thief driving off with it.

The 48-year-old Guiseley woman suffered minor cuts after jumping on to the bonnet of her grey Honda hatchback in a bid to stop the youth getting away.

The incident took place in a lay-by on Bradford Road, Guiseley, at 6.30pm last Thursday.

The woman had pulled into the lay-by and got out of the car to post some letters in a nearby postbox. She left her handbag and car keys in the unlocked car.

While she was looking away, a blonde youth jumped into the car, locked the door, and started the engine. The woman threw herself on to the bonnet, believing he would not drive off.

But the teenager jolted the car forward and braked sharply, causing the woman to hit her head on the bonnet and fall into the road.

He then drove off towards Bradford.

Police said the woman was not seriously injured, but they are still hunting the thief and the car. The thief was described as white, aged around 16, and had blonde hair with a tuft at the front. He was wearing a grey fleece.

The car's registration is N530 MWR.

Anyone who has seen the youth or the stolen car is asked to call Weetwood Police on (0113) 2413459 or the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.