Robbers attack Oswestry man, 87, in his own home

An 87-year-old Shropshire man was hurt by robbers in a "cowardly attack" in his own home. The man was awoken in the early hours of yesterday when two men broke in.

They broke into his house in Ambleside Road, Oswestry, before attacking him and ordering him to hand over his belongings.

He was rushed to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for treatment to his injuries.

Police are urging anyone who has any information on the attack to come forward.

Inspector Jane Fitzpatrick said: "It is believed the man was sleeping at home in Ambleside Road, Oswestry when he woken at 2.45am by two males inside his home.

"The two male burglars got away, leaving him with injuries requiring hospital treatment. He remains in a serious but stable condition this morning, with injuries to his head, hip and arm."

Police have not said what was stolen.

Detective Inspector Nick Hondon described the attack as "very nasty" and "cowardly".

He added: "I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time or saw anything suspicious to contact me as soon as possible.

"If you have any information at all, please contact Shrewsbury Police Station quoting 76S May 2 as soon as possible by calling 0300 3333000."

Residents of Ambleside said the incident was worrying.

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: "Although I don't know who the gentleman is, my thoughts are with him."

Another added: "I must have slept through the commotion, but I would urge anybody who saw anything to contact the police. As it was a bank holiday there must have been people walking home from the pubs."

A 25-year-old man and a 23-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of robbery at about 9.30pm yesterday.

Both remain in police custody and were due to be interviewed later today.