A terminally ill man was beaten and robbed by two thugs in a ‘vicious and cowardly attack’ as he walked home from a night out in Denton.
The 69-year-old cancer sufferer was returning home just before midnight on August 5 after enjoying one of the last pleasures in his life, a night out with friends at the Angel Pub, when the brutal attack occurred.
The victim was walking down Wood Street when two robbers sneaked up behind him and hit him on the back of the head, which knocked him to the ground.
The attackers then kicked him in the stomach, stood on his back and snatched his wallet before taking some money and throwing the wallet back at him.
They then ran off in the direction of Edward Street.
Detective Constable Fiona Rigby, based at Hyde, said: “This was a vicious and cowardly attack on a frail and dying man.
“He has terminal cancer and is very ill, in fact he doesn’t have long to live. One of his remaining pleasures in life is to walk to his local pub for a couple of beers with his friends.
“Now, because of the despicable actions of these cowards, this modest pleasure has been utterly destroyed.
“Walking to and from the pub was part of his ritual, no doubt bringing him a modicum of independence. Now he has to get a taxi out of fear.”
After the cruel and merciless attack, the victim received hospital treatment as he was suffering from two suspected broken ribs.
His attackers are described as around 20 years old, 5ft 8in or 9in tall, with local accents.
One wore a light grey tracksuit while the other wore a black tracksuit. Both wore their hoods up.
Detective Constable Rigby added: “The robbers probably wouldn’t have known about his condition, but one look at him would have told them he was frail, vulnerable and clearly not going to put up a fight – precisely why these bullies picked on him no doubt.
“I now want everyone to recall whether they were in the area – near the allotments on Wood Street – around midnight on Tuesday August 5. Did you see anything that could help us?
“Also, while the victim was lay on the floor being attacked he saw a black or dark vehicle driving past him up Wood Street in the direction of Greengate Road, Denton.
“Were you in that car and did you see anything? If so, please get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 9484 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks
