A petrol thief who ran his car over a station attendant as he attempted to flee from a garage forecourt has been jailed for four years.

Stephen Wilkinson, of no fixed abode, stole a combined total of £1,300 worth of fuel during 21 occasions from garages in Borehamwood and other areas across Hertfordshire.

On July 28 last year, a male member of staff at a Sainsbury’s petrol station in Stevenage recognised the 21-year-old and tried to stop him leaving.

But Wilkinson drove off and the 55-year-old employee was dragged under the wheels of the car, causing him serious leg injuries.

Wilkinson was arrested and later pleaded guilty to assault and 21 offences of taking fuel from a garage.

He was also convicted of dangerous driving and driving without insurance or a licence and was jailed for four years at Cambridge Crown Court on March 13.

Detective Constable Emma Landucci, from Hertfordshire Police, said: “I would like to commend the bravery of the man who tried to stop Wilkinson. The victim put his own life at risk to prevent him from committing further crime.

“I would also like to thank the numerous members of the public who came forward to assist our investigation.”