RAIDERS ransacked a pensioner's home while he was being treated in hospital for a chronic lung condition.

Retired former bus driver Alan Roberts, 64, today blasted the burglars who "cleared his house of everything" while he was in Queen's Park Hospital, Blackburn.

Mr Roberts, who suffers from Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD), was admitted to hospital for treatment last Friday.

His home in Fishmoor Drive, Blackburn, was raided on Saturday and thieves stole a television set, a video recorder, a music centre, two lamp-stands, a toaster, a vacuum cleaner, two telephones and a kettle.

They also stole a collection of ornaments which Mr Roberts and his late wife Jean had bought during 37 years of marriage.

Mr Roberts, who also worked at Sun Paper Mill, Feniscowles for several years before his early retirement, said: "It really knocked me back when I was told about the break-in.

"But I am not going to let them beat me. It is sad because there are some very good people who live in this area.

"I don't want to appear to be crying, but some of the items they stole have a big sentimental value.

"If anybody has any information I would urge them to help."

Anybody with information should contact Blackburn Police on 01254 51212.

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