AN 86-year-old war veteran today said he had lost trust in people after being attacked in his home by a robber.

John Stevens, of the Bank Top area, spoke out after Craig Southworth, of Sandon Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to pushing him over and stealing his wallet.

Southworth, 30, called at Mr Stevens' home at 9.50pm on April 5 last year, asking to use the phone.

Once inside, he pushed the World War Two veteran over and forcibly removed his wallet, containing £200 in cash, from his pyjamas.

As a result of the attack, Mr Stevens, who is partially sighted and has partial hearing, has lost the use of a finger and has restricted movement in his left shoulder. Mr Stevens said he had not got over the incident and that it had lived with him ever since.

He added: "Every time there is a knock at the door, I think about that night in April. At the age of 86, I have lost my trust in people and feel like a prisoner in my own home."

Detective Inspector Ian Critchley of Blackburn CID added: "It was an unprovoked, nasty and vicious attack on a vulnerable elderly man in his own home.

"We have constantly kept in touch with the victim, along with other agencies, to assist his recovery and keep him abreast of the court proceedings for which he has been deeply anxious. He is now grateful the matter has drawn to a close."

At Preston Crown Court, Mark Stuart, defending, asked for the case to be adjourned after Southworth had pleaded guilty to robbery so that a background report could be drawn up.

He said: "The defendant knows he will receive a custodial sentence. The only issue is if it will be a short-term or long-term sentence."

Judge Pamela Badley added: "This is clearly going to be a custodial sentence. The court will look at all information, including that in a pre-sentence report".

Southworth was remanded in custody until sentencing on March 26.