A PENSIONER suffered life-threatening injuries in an assault in Ombersley.

Two men wearing balaclavas forced entry and searched the elderly man's property before carrying out the unprovoked assault.

The man in his 70s suffered the serious injuries in the attack, which happened in the Oldfield Lane property on Wednesday, (August 15).

Police investigating the incident say the man has been in hospital since the assault.

Detective Inspector Chris Percival said: "I would like to reassure the community that we take all reports of this nature extremely seriously and a thorough investigation has begun.

"The victim suffered substantial injuries as a result of the assault and we are keen for anyone with information to get in touch.

"We'd also like to speak to anyone who was in the area between 10.15pm and 10.45pm as they may be able to help us.

"Any details - no matter how small they may seem - could be significant to our ongoing investigation."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting 889S of August 15.