An 85-year-old man with onset dementia suffered bruising and shock after being punched in the face by would-be thieves in Wigan town centre.
The elderly man was approached by two people in the Church Gardens off Market Street just after 2.30pm on May 20.
The pair demanded money from the victim before punching him in the face which caused him to fall the floor before they left empty-handed.
One of the offenders is described as being a white man in his 40s, slim and around 5ft 6in tall. He was wearing dark clothing.
The other is described as a white woman also in her 40s and slim with light-coloured hair.
Police Constable Wendy Wooldridge said: “The man is suffering with the onset of dementia and can remember very little about the attack.
“He was however very shaken up and suffered bruising to his face.
“Several people passing by came to the man’s aid and I am grateful to those who have already spoken to police.
“The area is in the middle of town and is used as a short cut by many people. I would ask if anyone else saw the incident or the two people in the area that they contact police.”
Anyone with information should call police in 0161 856 7124 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Picture courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks
