A 75-YEAR-OLD man who was assaulted by a robber in his own home said today: "I want him caught."

Detectives hunting the attacker who robbed retired building worker James Varley have released an artist's impression.

Mr Varley was left shocked and bruised after the attacker kicked his front door in and bundled him to the ground last Saturday.

The pensioner, who lives in the Barnfield area of Accrington, was watching horse racing on television at about 3.25pm when there was a knock at the door.

He said: "There was a man there and he was asking me for some string to fix his car.

"I thought it was a reasonable request but I said I didn't have any.

"He asked me if I was sure and could he would come and have a look himself.

"I said 'You can't come in here', and tried to shut the door, but the next thing I knew, he had grabbed my arm and threw me on the floor. "I was on my back and he pinned me down, grabbed my wallet and he was off like a flash. I picked myself up and pulled the emergency cord to get the warden."

Mr Varley's back was badly bruised and his arm was also hurt in the attack, and he received treatment at Accrington Victoria Hospital.

He was so shocked by the ordeal that it was days before he was well enough to give police the full details.

He went on: "I want him caught. I don't want this to happen to anybody else.

Mr Varley's wallet contained a gold heart-shaped locket with a picture of his late wife Helen and late son John. The wallet also contained around £300.

Police said the robber was in his 30s, about 6ft, and of medium build. He had short, dark wavy hair and was scruffy with dark stubble on his chin. He wore a waist-length dark leather-type jacket.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who received a similar visit as well as people who were in the Plantation Street area at the time. Information to Accrington Police on 01254 382141.

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