Elderly'¨targeted'¨in violent robberies

The attack on the woman took place at Aston Gardens on the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast yesterday afternoon.

The woman, in her nineties, was struck on the head with a stick and had her handbag stolen by a man at around 4pm. She was taken to hospital for treatment.

The attacker was described as being aged in his sixties, of thin build, around 5’6” tall and was wearing a flat cap and rain jacket, possibly grey in colour.

Detective Inspector Nigel Snoddy appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information to contact detectives in Musgrave on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Detectives are also appealing for witnesses following a robbery in the Ballycormick Park area of Ballymoney on Saturday night.

An 82-year-old man had just returned to his home around 11.30pm when two unknown males entered the property behind him.

Following a short struggle the intruders tied him up with cable ties before making off with a laptop bag containing a number of CDs and personal items, including bank cards.

The elderly man was able to free himself and raise the alarm.

He was then taken to hospital for treatment to injuries he suffered to his hands.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information that can assist with the investigation is asked to contact detectives in Coleraine on 101. Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.