THUGS tried to batter their way into a pensioner's flat, smashing two holes in the front door.

Det Constable John Entwisle said the vandals appeared to have used a brick or a stone to smash the door of the 71-year-old man's flat in Cross Barn Walk, Darwen.

Two or three youths were spotted running away from the area at 10.30pm on Friday.

Anyone with information about the crime can contact Darwen CID on 01254 701777.

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