Woman, 90, assaulted and robbed by bogus gardener at home

A 90-year-old woman has been left ‘extremely distressed and shaken’ after being assaulted and robbed in her own home.

The pensioner was targeted by a man who had earlier carried out some gardening work for her on Cameron Drive in New Farm Loch, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire on Monday.

He appeared at the victim’s door at around 2.20pm and forced his way in before grabbing her and demanding she hand over money.

Police are now looking to trace the man who made off towards the ‘Courts’ area of New Farm after after stealing some personal items and a small amount of money from the woman.

He is described as being around 5ft 11in with a slim build and short hair.

At the time of the attack he was wearing a black hooded top, grey joggers tucked into green socks and white trainers.

Detective sergeant Keith Hyndes, from Kilmarnock CID, said: “This despicable individual preyed on a vulnerable elderly woman after carrying out some gardening work for her the day before, which was paid for in full at the time.

“Thankfully she was not injured during the incident but this was still an extremely distressing experience which has left her badly shaken.

“It is vital that we trace the man responsible and I am appealing for anyone who was in the surrounding area and noticed a man matching the above description, or anything at all suspicious, to please get in touch.

“I would also urge any motorists with dash-cams who were travelling through to check their footage in case they have managed to capture the suspect.

“This incident will understandably have caused concern to the local community and I would like to reassure you that we are following a positive line of enquiry and additional patrols will be in the area throughout the investigation.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland through 101.”