A MASKED raider kicked a pensioner and dragged him along the floor by his feet after bursting into his home and demanding money.

Police leading the hunt for the attacker, who threatened to kill the 77-year-old victim and his wife, have branded the crime "despicable" and are desperate to catch the offender before he strikes again.

The incident happened at the home of Norman and Isobel Taylor in Christ Church Street, Bacup, at 12.30pm on Saturday.

The attacker searched Mrs Taylor's handbag and stole £300 - six weeks' pension she had collected earlier that week.

Mr Taylor, 77, a former Accrington and Rossendale College lecturer in shoe and boot making at Rawtenstall, said: "He used so much violence when it just wasn't necessary.

"When he told us he was going to kill us, that is exactly what we thought he was going to do.

"I couldn't do much because he had kicked me so hard I was struggling for breath. In fact I am still struggling to breath now."

Mrs Taylor, 75, who suffers from osteoporosis - brittle bones - added: "It was terrifying. We didn't know what to do. Norman was pleading with him, asking him not to hurt me.

"He was more concerned about me because of my condition.

"This man was ready to do anything, he was so big he filled the whole door space which was very frightening.

"I am just glad we did have some cash to give him or else we fear he would have killed us in a fit of anger."

Detective Constable Andy Riley said: "The man knocked on the front door and then Mr Taylor went to answer it and unlocked the door.

"The attacker, who was wearing a black ski mask, pushed Mr Taylor over, kicked him and dragged him along the floor by his feet down the hallway to the front room where Mrs Taylor was.

"He was using very strong language and shouting at them telling them he was going to kill them before he made demands for money."

Police have carried out house-to-house inquiries but are keen to speak to any witnesses who have not yet come forward.

DC Riley added: "This crime is one of the worst I have ever come across. It is a despicable offence which is extremely rare and unusual for this extent of violence to be used.

"We don't want to alarm people but we are keen to speak to any witnesses as soon as possible to prevent this man from preying on anybody else.

"I would also urge anybody who may know this man to get in touch with us because this kind of behaviour towards vulnerable elderly people cannot be tolerated."

Anybody with information should contact DC Riley at Rawtenstall CID on 01706 237440 or people can call in confidence to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.