AN 83-YEAR-OLD ex-miner was so badly shaken by a gang of robbers that he hid in his bedroom for the entire night.
A warden at the sheltered accommodation found him last Friday morning in his home at Edenfield, West Pelton, near Chester-le-Street.
The widower was physically unharmed but was badly shaken after the attack at about 7.30pm on Wednesday.
He answered a knock at the door when he was confronted by three or four youths who barged into the bungalow before pushing him over and taking £800 cash from his pocket.
Acting Det Sgt Michael Wilson, of Chester-le-Street CID, said officers were working on the theory that the group of youths were locals.
He said: "Those involved clearly had no regard for this frail 83-year-old man
"At this stage we have no reports of any other incidents in the area and we believe those responsible may have singled out the victim who has lived in this bungalow for more than 30 years.
"Because there is a strong spirit of community and he is widely known we are hopeful that anyone with any information will come forward quickly."
Chester-le-Street CID can be contacted on (0191) 388 4311.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article