POLICE have appealed for information to catch a "cowardly" mugger after a 4ft 6in frail and visually impaired man was attacked outside his house.

Six-stone Alan Barnes, 67, has lived with disabilities from birth after his mother contracted German measles when she was pregnant.

Mr Barnes, a well-known figure in Low Fell, Gateshead, broke his collar bone when he was attacked as he put out his bins on Sunday night by a would-be robber.

A fund set up for him has now raised an astonishing £80,000 donated by well-wishers since the news of his attack.

The mugger shoved Mr Barnes over, causing the painful injury to his shoulder, demanded money and went through his pockets.

When Mr Barnes told the man he had no money and then called for help the robber ran off.

Detective Constable Chris Neil, of Gateshead CID, said: "This was a cowardly assault on a vulnerable man who wasn't able to defend himself.

"His disability means he is partially sighted and quite short and it's disgraceful that someone would target him.

"The victim is quite a well-known man in the area and this has left him extremely distressed.

"We're doing everything we can to trace the suspect and I would urge anyone who saw this attempted robbery or who has information about the person responsible to get in touch."