A delivery driver was assaulted and had his van stolen during a violent robbery.

The incident happened at around 1.30pm yesterday (Thursday, October 19) in Thirlmere Road, Lancaster.

The offender is described as a white man of a stocky build wearing a black or navy-blue puffer jacket.

The van was a white Ford Transit, registration HV71 VFL. It contained a number of parcels out for delivery.

Detective inspector Adie Knowles, of Lancaster CID, said: "This was clearly a distressing incident for the driver and it's lucky he wasn't injured. We are carrying out a number of enquiries and I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or who sees a van or the suspect matching the description to get in touch urgently.

"I would also ask anyone who may have CCTV, dashcam, mobile, or Ring doorbell footage to get in touch."

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting log 0683 of October 19. For immediate sightings of the van or suspect, call 999.