A 58-year-old woman is recovering after a terrifying ordeal in which she was bundled into her own car boot by two men and then brutally attacked.

Police say the victim was hospitalised after sustaining injuries to her head, torso and hands during the incident, which began in the South Oxfordshire village of Kidmore End, near Reading.

She was driven around and beaten up by the men, one of whom was brandishing a knife, between about 6.30pm and 7pm on Tuesday.

The unnamed woman had parked and exited her black BMW One Series when two men then approached, before attacking her and trapping her in the boot of her own vehicle.

The offenders drove the car to a number of unknown locations, before stopping at Tanners Lane near Chalhouse Green, where they physically assaulted her.

Eventually, the offenders fled the scene.

Police did not give a possible motive.

The victim managed to free herself from the boot and sought help from a member of the public, who called police.

Both men are described as black, one was broad shouldered and possibly in his twenties. The knife was large and black handled.

Investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Matt Stone, of Force CID, said: “These are extremely serious offences, which are being extensively investigated by Thames Valley Police.

“Residents will see an increased police presence in the area, with a scenewatch in Scott Close. If you have any concerns or questions, please approach a police officer.

“Our investigation has started in earnest; the victim’s vehicle has been recovered, we are carrying out forensic examinations, conducting house to house enquiries, and are obtaining and reviewing CCTV.

“The victim continues to receive treatment in hospital for her injuries and we are working with her and her family to progress the investigation, and ensure she receives the support needed

“Someone, somewhere will have information about these offences and I am appealing to those people to search their conscience, consider the injuries to the victim, and do the right thing by coming forward.

Police are asking anyone with information to call 101 quoting reference number 43180378785.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously at https://crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.