A pensioner has been left with horrific injuries after he was attacked in his own garden during lockdown.
Robert Thompson needed surgery on a broken hip, fractured cheekbone and a broken nose, in the unprovoked attack at his home in Gateshead.
The 74-year-old released the images of his wounds in a desperate bid to help police track down the thug who assaulted him.
Police say the offender jumped over a garden fence and attacked Mr Thompson, before fleeing the scene on foot along, before he was seen getting into a black car, shortly after noon on Wednesday, April 22.
The offender is described as a white man in his early 20s with a slight build.
He was sporting a scruffy beard was wearing a grey hooded top.
Police are asking for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who might have information about those responsible, to come forward.
Detective constable Ben Malinski said: “This was a callous and unprovoked attack which left a vulnerable pensioner needing surgery.
“Thankfully Mr Thompson has made a speedy recovery and is recuperating well, but we are determined to find whoever is responsible for this vicious assault.
“We have carried out a number of enquiries in connection with this incident and are now appealing to the public to information.
"If you saw anything, or you think you might have information about who is responsible, please come forward as soon as possible.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.
