KNIFE-brandishing thieves punched an elderly man in the face and stole his bank card, before withdrawing his money from a Northwich cash machine.

At around 11.55pm on Sunday, October 6, two men − one brandishing a knife − entered an address in Priory Street address and threatened a 75-year-old man who was inside.

They assaulted the victim by punching him in the face and stole his wallet, which contained his bank card, and demanded that he had over his pin number.

The offenders then fled the scene.

The bank card was later used to withdraw a quantity of cash at the Co-operative food store’s cash machine in Chesterway.

Detective Sergeant John Lyons said: "The victim was understandably left very shaken by what happened and is being supported by his family.

“He sustained a bruised and swollen right eye as a result of the incident and has been taken to hospital to be checked over.

"We take any incidents of this nature extremely seriously and want to reassure the local community that we will do all we can to trace those responsible.

"Extensive enquiries are being carried out by local officers. These include house-to-house enquiries, CCTV enquiries and any relevant forensic enquiries.

"The investigation is continuing and we are appealing for anyone with any information, which could assist with our enquiries, to come forward.

"We are also keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen anyone acting suspiciously or may have seen the two men fleeing the scene to get in touch."

The two offenders are described as white, in their mid to late 20s and were wearing black or blue long sleeved hooded tops and black or blue baggy trousers.

Anyone with any information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 1039 of 6 October.

Information can also be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.