The pensioner was attacked on Thursday, June 28

A heartless criminal left an 80-year-old man needing hospital treatment after an “appalling attack” in Tottenham.

The pensioner was walking with the help of a stick near the Welbourne Play Centre, at the junction of Monument Way and Stainby Road, last Tnursday afternoon when the young robber approached him on his bicycle, grabbing him by the neck as he tried to rip his victim’s gold chain off.

But the chain didn’t snap and the force used by the suspect caused his victim to fall face first to the floor - leaving the elderly gentleman lying injured on the ground as he cycled off empty-handed.

The pensioner, who had a large cut to his forehead, as well as more cuts on his face, had to be taken to North Middlesex Hospital for treatment. He was later discharged.

Police are now hoping members of the public will be able to help them find the callous criminal.

Trainee DC Gemma Goldsbro, of Haringey CID, said: “This was an appalling attack on a vulnerable gentleman and we can only be thankful that he is recovering from his injuries.

“We know that the Welbourne Play Centre was busy with parents and children at the time of the attempted robbery and I appeal directly to them and to anyone else that was in the area at about 5.30pm on Thursday, June 28, to contact us with information.”

The suspect is described as being a light skinned black male, aged 16 to 17 years, of slim build, clean shaven with a crew cut and riding a pedal bike.

Anyone with information is asked to contact TDC Goldsbro on 020 8345 0870.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.