AN elderly stroke victim was cruelly tortured during a harrowing ordeal at the hands of a violent intruder.

The pensioner, who has difficulty communicating as a result of a number of strokes, was held captive for three hours by the raider. A cigarette had been stubbed out on his stomach and one of his toenails was missing... but the pensioner bravely refused to reveal if there was any money in the house, despite being subjected to a ferocious assault.

Police say the thug broke into the victim's home in Hall Road, Haydock, some time between 9pm and midnight on Wednesday, April 22. The pensioner was discovered lying on the floor by his home help at 10am the following day. He was taken to Whiston Hospital where he received treatment for a broken nose, grazing and bruising to his face and possible fractured ribs. One of the pensioner's toe nails was also missing and a cigarette had been stubbed out on his stomach.

ANYONE who may be able to help police with their inquiries is asked to contact DC Dave Roberts at St Helens police station on 0151 777 6874, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

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