A man from Oldham is facing more than 10 years behind bars after launching a 'sickening attack' on an elderly gentleman in his own home.

Minshull Street Crown Court heard how Leon Gunning of Edward Street, played a cunning act where he pretended to be a caring neighbour to an 81-year-old man before assaulting and robbing him.

The victim was taking his daily walk down his street in Levenshulme in February this year when Gunning approached him and asked him if he needed help getting back to his house.

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Gunning, who was 49 at the time, told the victim he was his neighbour who had just moved into the area.

When the pair arrived at the elderly man's address, the court heard Gunning forced his way in and insisted the victim made him a cup of tea while he used the bathroom.

While in the property, Gunning rummaged around the victim's bedroom before heading back downstairs.

Moments later, he then took the elderly man's emergency bracelet off his wrist before pinning him to the couch and restraining his arms so he couldn't move.

Gunning then threw the pensioner onto the floor and continued to search the address before making off with £15 in cash, the victim's keys and emergency bracelet, which he then left on the porch while the victim lay helpless on the floor of his living room.

Minshull Crown Court sentenced Gunning today (September 11) to 12 years and two months imprisonment after being found guilty of assault and robbery.

PC Billy Lontton from GMP's North Manchester Neighbourhood Crime Team said: “This is a really sickening attack on a vulnerable and elderly gentleman who was out on his daily walk which helps him with the blood circulation in his legs.

“He has been attacked in his own home, somewhere that he should feel safe and protected, by a man who did not care what happened to him, leaving him injured and without assistance in his own front room.

“Robbery and theft remain a priority for Greater Manchester Police, and we will investigate every report that comes in, with a view to locating, apprehending and charging individuals who think they have the right to take from others, without their consent.

“We encourage anyone who may have been a victim, or if you know someone who has been, to contact us and you have our assurance that we will investigate.”

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk