Amputee is beaten with his own stick

A gang of men attacked an amputee with his own walking stick while trying to rob him as he walked through a popular Sandwell park, police said today.

Detectives are now appealing for help in catching those responsible.

Four men are believed to be responsible for the attack in Smethwick's Victoria Park in Pool Road at around 8.30pm last Monday.

The 54-year-old victim was approached and punched in the face, knocking off his glasses. One of the men held his hands behind his back as the others searched his pockets.

As he struggled, one of the men grabbed his walking stick, attacking him with it as another broke his neck chain. The men fled empty handed when neighbours heard the man's screams and came to his aid.

The chain was found on the ground. The victim, who does not want to be named, was left with minor injuries, pain to his leg and nose, and today spoke of his ordeal. He said: "I've had to have a lot of counselling to improve my confidence since losing my leg and this robbery has not helped me as I try and get back to my usual self."

Dc Pete Miller, from Sandwell CID, said: "This was nasty attack on a vulnerable man."