Thug slams door on 71-year-old woman's arm

A pensioner was taken to hospital after a drunken thug slammed a car door on her arm.

The woman, aged 71, had been visiting a friend when she returned to a car on Haugh Fold, Newhey, with another friend at about 9.30pm on 3 April 2010.

The women were approached by a man who told them, "What right have you got to be happy when I've just got back from Afghanistan."

The victim attempted to get into the car when the offender slammed it shut, trapping the woman's arm. She was taken to hospital for treatment to a broken elbow.

The offender, described as white, in his 30s, about 5ft 7in tall, of slight build with a shaven head, then stood on the bonnet and roof of the car before running off.

Detective Contable Matthew Cassidy, of Rochdale CID, said: "I am keeping an open mind about the comments made about Afghanistan.

"This was a cowardly and completely unprovoked attack on a pensioner and I am sure the offender will be thoroughly ashamed of his actions that evening.

"I would appeal to anyone who might have witnessed the incident or recognises the description of the offender to call police."

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4644, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.