A partially blind 96-year-old man endured a frightening assault and robbery after opening his front door to a man he believed was his son.

The pensioner, unable to see who had knocked, was attacked when he answered the front door at his home in Lilian Road, Mitcham, on Friday, November 23, at about 4.30pm.

A man forced his way in, grabbed the elderly man, and searched through his pockets stealing £50 and a travel card before fleeing the scene.

The man, who lives alone, is blind in his left eye and has only limited vision in his right.

Detective Constable Riaz Karolia, from Wimbledon CID, said: "Whilst shocked by what occurred, fortunately the elderly victim did not suffer any physical injury and is currently being supported by his family.

"It is appalling to think that an individual can stoop so low as to target such a frail and infirm gentleman within his own home, and put him through the frightening ordeal of being grabbed, man-handled and searched for the sake of a few pounds.

"I am reasonably certain this individual resides locally and I would appeal for anyone who could assist us in identifying this person to contact police."

The suspect is described as white, aged about 30, and was wearing a waist-length khaki coat and thick black gloves.

He may have arrived on a bicycle.

Anyone with information should call the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 1415571/12 or anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.