A GRANDAD was left “covered in bruises” and with “severe cuts over his body” after being brutally robbed in the street.

The elderly man, aged in his 80s, was found injured in Sutherland Place, Wickford, following the vicious attack on Sunday night.

Taking to social media, his family warned how the man’s dog had been stolen during the robbery.

However, his pooch was found by a member of the public and handed into Cherrydown Vets before being returned.

Wickford Park councillor George Jeffery said: “I am utterly appalled, you would just never expect this to happen to anyone.

“It’s shocking and totally unacceptable - it could change the poor man’s behaviour and may mean he’s more cautious about going out.

“It just shouldn’t be this way, if residents want to walk with their dogs they should be able to without fear of being assaulted or having their pet stolen.

“I truly hope the police find those responsible and get the man the justice he deserves, and that he recovers to full health.”

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It is understood the elderly man was robbed at some time after 10.30pm on Sunday, before being discovered injured when the incident was reported to police around 10.30am the following morning.

Police enquiries are ongoing.

Councillor Craig Rimmer, from the enforcement and public order committee, said: “This absolutely a concern, it is utterly disgraceful to hear of an attack at all let alone on one of our older citizens.

“All while he was minding his business probably walking his dog, it’s just awful.

“We’ve got to get people like this off our streets, this can leave such an impact on those who are affected. It can especially shake you up and knock your confidence in people and society.

“I just hope with the love and support of his family and with his dog back that he can retain his confidence. I also hope this was a one off and nobody ever has to face this again.”

Call 101 and quote crime reference number 0312 of August 9.