89-year-old man robbed in his own home

Detectives are appealing for information and witnesses after an elderly man was robbed in his home in Newport.

At around 6.10pm on Tuesday January 31, 2012, two men knocked on the door of a property in Gaces Acre and pushed past the 89-year-old to get inside.

One of the men held him down on his bed while the other stole £500 in cash from a wallet in the man's coat.

The elderly man was badly shaken but suffered no visible injuries.

The suspects were both white men and were wearing dark clothing.

Insp Kevin Wakefield said: "This type of callous crime is very rare in Uttlesford district and has no place in our society.

"I would strongly urge anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour in the area during the time in question or who has information about the criminals responsible for this robbery to contact us."

Peter Caulfield, Crime Reduction Advisor for Uttlesford district, said: "Neighbourhood Watch is very active in Newport and we have made the local community aware of this distressing crime.

"Neighbourhood policing officers will be patrolling the area regularly and residents are welcome to speak to them for crime prevention advice. They are also most welcome to contact me directly at Saffron Walden police station by calling 101.

"I would advise residents to use a door chain or door bar when opening their door to an unexpected caller. It takes seconds to use one and it will alert an opportunist thief that your awareness of security is high. Faced with one of these devices, thieves will usually make their excuses and move on."

Anyone with information is urged to contact CID at Chelmsford, where the investigating officer is Dc Andrews, on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.