Detectives said today that the actions of the two robbers could have killed the 62-year-old angina sufferer who was left with severe bruising to his stomach.

The victim had been enjoying a drink in the city centre and got off the number 11 bus on Ribbleton Lane, just after the junction with Skeffington Road, at around 10pm on January 6.

As he walked back towards the Skeffington Arms pub he was approached by two men who asked him for a light.

He was kicked in his stomach by one of them while the other took £50 in notes from his pocket.

Det Sgt John Crichton, of Preston CID, said: "This man was clearly picked on because of his vulnerable state and age. Given his delicate condition, their actions could have had extremely serious consequences and, at worst, he could have died as a result of begin kicked to the ground.

"It happened close to a pub where customers or passers-by may have witnessed what happened or recall the two men in the area."

The first robber was white, in his early 20s, 5ft 6in, chubby with a strong Scottish accent. He wore a grey jumper.

His accomplice was also white, 5ft 9in and a similar age. He had a Liverpudlian accent and wore a dark hoodie and a cap.

They ran away towards Acregate Lane.

Anyone with information should call Preston Police on 01772 203203 on Crimestoppers 0800 555111.

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