Blind man in state of shock

A BLIND man said he was in a state of shock and frightened after his home was raided by thieves on Monday night.

Norman Gilbert was in the upstairs of his Colane Road home when he heard a banging at his front door shortly after 10pm.

The 65-year-old asked the men to leave but they forced their way in through a back door to gain entry to the disabled man's home.

It's thought two men entered the home and while one kept Norman in his bedroom the other ransacked the other rooms.

The intruders ripped the telephone from the socket, leaving Norman with no way of contacting the outside world.

He was forced to make his way to a neighbour's home who then raised the alarm.

Norman, who has lived in the house for over 35 years said he was left extremely shaken but unhurt. In an interview with the 'MAIL' he said he was unsure about remaining in the house.

"It was like a nightmare, it all happened so quick," he said "I don't know what to do now about moving.

"They wouldn't come back would they?"

Norman is helped by part-time carers and his close family, brother Stephen praised neighbours and the police.

He said: "The support we received from the neighbours and the police really means a lot.

"Norman has always been comfortable living here and has never had any trouble in the past and if anyone saw anything I would urge them to contact the police."

The police have appealed for information, they can be contacted on 0845 600 8000. Information can also be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.