A TWISTED thug assaulted a frail Greenock pensioner in her own home.

The despicable incident happened at the 74-year-old woman’s property in Fairrie Street at about 5.20pm on Saturday night.

The lady, who is described as having mobility problems and has difficulty hearing, noticed a man loitering at her front door which was open at the time.

As she tried to close the door the man pushed his way in, knocking the pensioner to the floor.

He then started rifling through her belongings.

Luckily a neighbour heard the victim screaming and rushed to her aid before the cruel culprit fled the scene.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff of Greenock CID said: "The 74-year-old woman, who has mobility and hearing issues, was in her house.

“Her front door was open at the time and a male attended at the door.

“He said he was looking for a relative of his.

“She asked him to leave and as she tried to close the door he pushed the door open and it caused her to fall to the ground.

“He went in and rifled through various items on the table.

“The woman screamed for help and a female from a neighbouring property heard her, so she challenged the male and told him to get out and eventually he did.”

DI Wagstaff says the incident is concerning and he is urgently appealing for information.

He added: “We are treating this as an assault and attempted theft.

“It’s concerning that anyone would do that to an elderly person, especially somebody with mobility issues.

“Obviously we hope that the local community will come forward with any information.”

Neighbours spoke of their shock at the incident.
One resident, who asked not to be named, said: “This is usually a quiet area.

“I’m really shocked this has happened — it’s terrible.”

The culprit is described as 5ft 7ins in height and of a slim build.

He has a top tooth missing and was wearing a blue baseball cap, blue jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with information should phone Greenock CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.