Pensioner 'was attacked for £15'

The burglars forced their way into the pensioner's house in Mandeville Avenue, in the early hours of Wednesday.

The victim was threatened with a knife and forced to hand over the small amount of cash. He suffered minor cuts and bruises.

Police said his attackers were between 16 and 17. Forensic officers have examined the house for fingerprints.

David Heasley who lives in the same street said the man was left badly shocked and injured.

"He has cuts over his nose, his ribs were kicked a bit, he remembers the colour of the shoes. They took £15 on him."

Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson said the attackers were "cowards".

"The fear within the community is palpable and we need to take action, not just in terms of policing, but also providing measures to the elderly in their homes to afford better security," he said.