AN elderly couple were robbed in their Hollywood home in what police have described as 'a truly despicable crime'.

The couple, who are in their 80s, heard persistent ringing at the door and the man went to open it.

A man forced his way into the house, pushing the elderly man over in the hallway and a second man then went into the house and pushed the woman over backwards into a chair before grabbing her handbag. They both then fled.

Two men also called at the couple's home a few evenings before claiming they needed urgent help as one of the men's wives was in labour.

Officers are looking at the possibility this is linked to the robbery, which happened at about 7.30pm on Monday, November 17.

DI Paul Williamson said: "This is a truly despicable crime where these men have threatened, frightened and intimidated an elderly and defenceless couple.

"The woman had only just been discharged from hospital following surgery and an ambulance had to be called to give treatment to the man."

The man who pushed the man over in the hall is described as white, about 5ft 10ins tall with dark hair which did not have a parting and he was wearing dark clothing.

The man who pushed the woman over is described as white, about 5ft 10ins tall and of slim build.

He was wearing an orange anorak with a hood.

DI Williamson said: "We urgently need to hear from anyone who may have any information as to who this offender is to make sure that he does not do this again to anyone."

Anyone with information can call DI Williamson on 08457 444 888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.