Hammer horror leaves pensioner terrified

Two masked burglars – branded the “lowest of the low” – broke into the 87-year-old man’s house in Coldwell End, Youlgrave, at about 3.30pm last Tuesday.

They threatened the pensioner with a hammer then ransacked his bedroom, stealing cigarettes and £100.

The thugs locked the man in his home before making their escape – leaving the victim to cry for help through a window.

The victim’s daughter, who does not want to be identified, said: “My dad is 87 now and he’s never been a victim of crime.

“This awful offence has left him frightened to be on his own.

“I feel really angry about it all.

“Whoever has done this is the lowest of the low and I hope they get caught and brought to justice as soon as possible.”

She added it was an unusual crime in a small village like Youlgrave.

Detective Constable Emma Rowntree, of Derbyshire police, said: “This offence was extremely distressing for the victim, who has ongoing medical issues and was left in shock.

“These criminals have not injured their victim in any way but their demands have had a lasting impact on him.

“Although it was an isolated incident, it’s important that people keep home security at the top of their list and make sure they lock doors, even if they’re in.”

One of the offenders was white, 5ft 10in, aged between 18 and 30 and of medium build.

The second was white, 5ft 8in, aged about 18 and of medium build.

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Derbyshire police on 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.