A GANG of masked men smashed into a motorist's car as they tried to steal his vehicle.

The 33-year-old man was followed down Duckworth Street in Prestwich by a red Escort or Cavalier carrying three men wearing balalavas.

One of the gang, who was wearing a ski mask, approached the victim's car prompting him to speed off.

The gang's car chased the man and hit his rear passenger side before blocking his vehicle on Shelley Road.

The driver managed to reverse his car and escape.