AN ELDERLY woman was left with a broken hip after she and her husband were attacked in their home in Glasgow’s Calton.

The man responsible for the sick beating followed her 81-year-old husband home from a chip shop on Abercromby Street at around 10.50pm on Thursday, August 25.

It is understood he approached the pensioner who is profoundly deaf and would not have been able to communicate.

He then gained access to the property which he shares with his 80-year-old wife who is also deaf.

Once within the sheltered housing flat, the thug attacked the couple before running off along Stevenson Street towards Tobago Street.

Emergency services were called and both victims were taken to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary where the woman is currently receiving treatment for facial injuries and a broken hip.

The man is being treated for injuries to his face and hand.

Hospital staff describe both of their conditions as stable.

The man is described as white, around 6ft tall, in his mid to late 30s, of slim build and with dark hair, which is distinctively receding at the top.

He was also wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and glasses.

Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace this man however detectives are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Stephen McGrath, from London Road CID, said: “This was a cowardly and despicable assault on an elderly couple who would not have been able to communicate with their attacker.

“Officers are currently examining CCTV footage and conducting door to door enquiries however we need the support of the local community to find whoever is responsible. At this time the motive for this crime is unclear however one line of enquiry is that it may have been an attempted robbery.

“From our enquiries so far we can see that, prior to the incident, the suspect stopped to speak to a couple on Abercromby Street whilst he was in the company of the victim and it is absolutely critical that we speak to them as soon as possible.

“I would also appeal to anyone who was in the surrounding area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed what happened to contact officers via 101. Alternatively you can call CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.

“Additional patrols will also be in the surrounding area to provide reassurance to the local community and I would urge anyone with concerns or information to approach the officers who will be more than happy to speak with them.”