Officers said the incident was reported to have taken place at a property at the top of Old St John’s Road near to the junction of New St John’s Road between 02:45 and 03:15.

The Force said: “…An unknown person/s entered a private dwelling and assaulted a vulnerable, elderly man before stealing cash from a bedside drawer in the amount of £6,300.

“The victim sustained facial injuries during the assault and is currently in hospital receiving treatment.”

Police are calling for witnesses and individuals with any information, as well as drivers with dash cam who were around the area at the time.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact police on 612612 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.