TWO women trying to sell cars were thrown from them by a thief within 24 hours of each other.

Dawn Witney was working at Parkview Motors on Pontefract Road, Barnsley, when a man came to test drive a Ford Transit minibus last Friday.

She accompanied him on the drive but on return to the dealership he dragged her out of the vehicle, leaving her with cuts and bruises, and badly shaken.

Her partner and owner of the firm, Craig Armitage, said: "You've no idea how dangerous this man is, but he came to steal that vehicle."

A Ford Fiesta was stolen about a mile away at Abbots Road in Lundwood the day before.

A woman, aged 36, had advertised the car on an online sales site.

A man called and arranged to view the car. He came to her house and asked if he could sit in the driver's seat. When inside the car, he then asked if the engine could be started.

The woman started the engine but kept a foot on the door sill. The man then sped off in the car with the woman holding on to the side, travelling at speed for about five metres until she lost her grip.

Police have warned anyone selling a car - privately or at a dealership - to be extra vigilant.

DC Kate Fullwood said: "Fortunately the women were not seriously injured but they are both incredibly shaken and upset by the incidents."I would urge anyone selling any type of vehicle to be vigilant and alert."

Anyone with information should call police on 101.