Pensioner punched in face by robbers

12:38pm Friday 9th May 2008

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TWO would-be robbers punched a Hampshire pensioner in the face when he refused to hand over money.

The 73-year-old victim has been left shaken after the incident, which happened as he walked near to shops on Wednesday night.

As he made his way along Rothesay Road in Gosport at around 10.30pm, two strangers stood in the man's way, blocking his path.

When he refused their demands for cash they punched him, causing minor injuries to his face and chest.

The pair then fled the scene without taking anything from the victim, running off towards an alleyway near Palmyra Road.

Police have today released descriptions of the two attackers, and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

"This incident has left the victim understandably shaken," said PC Gina Campbell.

"Fortunately, he received no serious injuries and the offenders did not take anything from him. However, the results could have been far worse.

"We would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward to help us track down those responsible."

Both suspects are white, in their late teens, approximately 5ft 10in tall and of slim build. They were wearing dark coloured hooded jumpers, dark tracksuit bottoms and light coloured trainers.

Anyone with information should call Gosport police station on 0845 045 45 45, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.