A hooded attacker has robbed two elderly sisters at their home in Glasgow.

Police have described the incident as "cowardly and terrifying".

The man called at the house in Kelvindale on Monday evening and pushed his way past one of the women, who is 86, before demanding money.

She refused and was thrown to the floor, breaking an arm.

Her sister, 84, who has a heart complaint, went to help her and was also pushed to the floor.

The man escaped on foot with two handbags containing a four-figure sum of money and personal items.

Both women are being detained in Glasgow's Western Infirmary because of their age.

'Safety of their home'

Detective Sergeant Steven Mason, the officer in charge of the enquiry, said: "I would appeal to anyone who knows anything about this cowardly and terrifying attack to come forward with information.

"The two woman, who were within the apparent safety of their home, were confronted by a man who robbed them not only of their money but of their piece of mind.

"We are anxious to speak to anyone who may witnessed the incident or who may have any relevant information."

In a separate incident in the Bellshill area of Glasgow, a 77-year-old woman who is recovering from a broken leg was also robbed at her home.

Three youths rang her doorbell and rushed into the house when she answered. One of the youths held her down on the floor whilst the others searched her house.

The woman was threatened with violence and the attackers made off with a two-figure sum of money.

'Despicable treatment'

The victim did not suffer any physical injuries but was badly shaken.

Detective Constable Hugh Burns said: "This was an unnecessarily violent attack, with no possible justification, carried out by those who show no regard for the potential consequences of their actions.

"The woman was an elderly and vulnerable member of our community, yet her attackers treated her in a despicable fashion."