A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder today after a woman was run over by her own car as she tried to stop it being stolen.

A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murder today after a woman was run over by her own car as she tried to stop it being stolen.

Lynda Hankey was seriously hurt in the incident, which happened in Prestt Grove, Wigan at about 4.20pm when she returned to her car and spotted someone in the driver's seat. She died later in hospital.

A 22-year-old man has now been arrested.

Officers appealed for anyone who has seen the stolen MG, registration AK53 WNW, to call police.

Detective Chief Inspector Robert Tonge of Wigan CID said: “This is a shocking incident in which a car thief has deliberately driven at a woman.

“She went on to the car bonnet and suffered a serious head injury. Tragically, she later died in hospital. Whoever did this is clearly reckless and potentially dangerous so we need the public's help to catch him.

“It's quite a distinctive vehicle so we really need to hear from anyone who knows of this car's whereabouts."

Anyone with information should call Wigan CID on 0161 856 7259 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.