Pensioner pushed over as thieves steal his wallet

A pensioner with walking difficulties was pushed over by a thief who stole his wallet in Heywood.

The 68-year-old victim was returning to his home on St James Street from a trip to the supermarket at 12.30pm on Sunday 7 June when he was confronted by two men.

As the victim reached the gates to Clough Flats a first man approached him, asked if he had been shopping and asked to see his receipt. The victim, who walks with the aid of a crutch, refused to show the receipt and the man began to argue with him.

A second man appeared and pushed the victim to the floor.

While he was on the ground, both men searched his pockets before stealing his wallet and running off towards The Heywood pub.

Detective Constable Tim O'Callaghan, based at Rochdale CID, said: "This is particularly nasty as the victim is clearly unsteady on his feet and was easily overcome by these two thugs.

"Although he was terribly shaken, fortunately he wasn't badly injured.

"If you saw anything in the area that day that might relevant or know who is responsible for this, please contact me."

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 8632 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.