AN elderly man is being hunted by police after he dragged a woman into his car and attacked her.

The 22-year-old victim was walking home alone at about 11.15pm on Saturday after an argument with her husband when she was assaulted.

Police said she had left her husband's car at the junction by the 96.6tfm studios in Thornaby, near Stockton, and was walking along Mandale Road when she noticed a car slowly following her.

The woman quickened her pace, but the car overtook her and stopped just in front of her outside Thornaby Town Hall, by the railway station.

The driver, thought to be aged about 70, moved over to the passenger seat, opened the door, reached out and grabbed the woman.

He pulled her into the vehicle and began attacking her, ripping her clothing and punching her in the face.

He drove off towards Thornaby when a member of the public startled him and the woman got away.

The attacker, who spoke with a local accent, had light or grey hair and a dark moustache. He was large, wore a shirt and tie and smelled strongly of coffee.

He drove a large, dark, saloon-type car, possibly a BMW or Mercedes.

It had a light leather interior and had an air freshener hanging from the rear view mirror.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Guy Newman on (01642) 302226. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.