Elderly couple robbed at knifepoint in their own home

AN elderly couple have been left terrified after being robbed at knifepoint in their own home.

Police are appealing for information after the pensioners were targeted in their home in Grosvenor Street, Edinburgh, yesterday afternoon.

At around 3.15pm a man who claimed to be working on the property next door forced his way into their flat, demanded money, and threatened them with a knife.

After the 77-year-old man and 74-year-old woman handed over their wallet and handbags respectively, the suspect left with a two-figure sum of money.

He is described as being white, between 6ft 1ins - 6ft 3ins tall, of slim build with a large nose and short dark hair. He was wearing a dark blue zip-up hooded tracksuit top with white stripes down the sleeve, dark trousers and white trainers. He spoke with a local accent.

A team of officers are now investigating, with door-to-door inquiries underway and high visibility patrols being carried out.

Detective Inspector Lyle Shaw said: “Fortunately the couple were not injured in any way, although this has been a terrible experience for them to have been robbed at knifepoint in their own home.

“We are appealing for anyone who may have been in the area yesterday, and may recognise the description of the man, to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.