A WIFE is anxiously awaiting the results of hospital tests on her husband who was twice run down by a getaway car.

Have-a-go company director Chris Hields suffered a fractured skull, eye socket and broken bones when crooks he caught stealing stock alloy steel from his engineering firm used their car as a weapon.

The 53-year-old was left for dead outside his business premises - CA Hields (engineering) Ltd, on the Durham Lane industrial estate, Eaglescliffe, at the weekend.

Speaking exclusively to The Northern Echo, today, his worried wife, Sue, said: "We are just waiting for some more reports. Consultants are examining scans. He is recovering, but we have a long way to go.''

Detectives have so far been unable to speak to Mr Hields, who is being treated in Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital.

Three men have been arrested in connection with the crime - and released on police bail. The trio two aged in their early 20s and a 19-year-old are all understood to be travellers.

Two people arrested earlier in the weekend were released without charge.

The car a J-registered Vauxhall Astra was left at the scene of the crime, as the thieves escaped on foot.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who was on or around the industrial estate at about 11am on Saturday - or anyone who saw the car and has information about it. They are asked to ring (01642) 302233, asking for Detective Sergeant John Ward, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.