'Despicable' robbery of elderly couple; ABBOTS BROMLEY.

POLICE are hunting a callous gang who forced their way into the home of a terrified retired couple to steal cash.

The "despicable" robbery happened in Clarks Crescent in Abbots Bromley, near Lichfield, as the couple, both aged 78, were sitting watching television.

Police say the couple heard a noise outside and, as the man went to investigate, he was "rushed" by three men who forced their way into the house.

The gang threatened the elderly couple before searching the property and stealing an undisclosed quantity of cash before fleeing the scene.

It is thought the cash may have been saved up by the pair to buy Christmas presents for relatives.

Detectives say although the pair were unhurt they were left badly shocked and shaken and needed medical treatment from Staffordshire Ambulance paramedics.

Det Con Julia Muzyka, who is leading the investigation, said: "This was a despicable robbery of two elderly members of a small village community.

"The couple were watching television when they heard a noise and as the man went to investigate he was rushed by the three men the men and forced their way into the house. They threatened the couple and the gang fled with a quantity of cash."

Anyone who spotted the men acting suspiciously or driving a vehicle at around 7.45 pm in the Clarks Crescent area of Abbots Bromley on the evening of Monday December 4 is asked to come forward.

Anyone with information can call DC Muzyka on 08453 30 20 10 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.