A POSTMAN was hospitalised after being struck down by his own vehicle as it was stolen.
The attack happened at 10.00 am on Thursday morning on High Road, Fobbing.
The 31-year-old postie from Stanford-le-Hope was making xmas deliveries when a male jumped into the van and stole it.
The postman attempted to prevent the theft of his vehicle and in doing so was struck as the vehicle made off.
He suffered from severe bruising and was taken to hospital but was discharged soon after.
The van was recovered a short time afterwards in Howell Road, Corringham.
Any information should be passed to the Serious Crime Team at Grays police station on 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
