AN opportunist thief faces a long spell in prison after has admitting stealing a lorry, running over its driver and leaving him for dead.

Leonard Willsher, 41, of The Fremnells, Basildon, pleaded guilty today to several offences which left delivery driver David Fletcher fighting for his life.

Dad-of-three Mr Fletcher, 58, was making deliveries in Wood Avenue, Purfleet, on Tuesday July 9 when two men jumped into his lorry and attempted to drive off.

Mr Fletcher, from Upminster, gave chase and tried to grab the keys out of the ignition through the driver’s side window.

However, he was shoved in the face by the driver, and fell to the ground.

His lorry then went over him, leaving him with multiple injuries.

Today Willsher pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking and driving whilst disqualified at Basildon Crown Court.

He is due to be sentenced in January.

Senior Investigating Officer Det Chief Insp Lucy Robinson said: "Leonard Willsher was an opportunist thief.

"Despite causing near fatal injuries, Willsher did nothing to help his victim, but was observed wiping his fingerprints from the lorry before running off, leaving his victim for dead.

“Thanks to expert medical care, his own strength of character and determination to get better Mr Fletcher is recovering with the help and support of his family.”

Detectives are still keen to hear from anyone who can help identify the second suspect in this case.