A PENSIONER who suffered a suspected broken nose in a violent robbery has vowed not to be intimidated.

John McManus, 67, was confronted by a man in an alleyway before being punched and kicked, causing severe swelling to his face.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the attack in Ramsbottom last Sunday.

Mr McManus was returning home from The Fusilier pub, in Bolton Road West, at around 1am when he was attacked between Garnett Street and Dundee Lane.

The man punched Mr McManus, of Garnett Street, in the face, causing him to fall to the floor.

He was then punched and kicked several times before having his wallet stolen.

Mr McManus, a retired labourer, said: “It was very scary and upsetting. I live alone and it’s sad that things like this happen.

“Somebody out there must know something about who did this.

“I won’t be forced into staying in the house. The best way to beat these people is show I won’t bullied into staying indoors.”

After the attack, the man, described as being around 6ft tall with black hair, ran off towards Dundee Lane.

The attacker was wearing a grey coat with a hood.

Mr McManus was left semi-conscious, but managed to return home and phone the police. He was taken to Fairfield General Hospital for treatment.

Greater Manchester police are appealing for information and witnesses and have released a photo showing the extent of the bruising around Mr McManus’ right eye.

DC Daniel Whitaker, from Bury police station, said: “This was a violent robbery which has left this man with nasty injuries to his face.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw the incident or a man running through the alleyway towards Dundee Lane I would urge you to call police.”

Coun Ian Bevan, who represents Ramsbottom, said: “John is a well-known man around the town. He’s lived here his whole life and it’s horrible to see nasty injuries like that."