Disabled man who was robbed while he sat in wheelchair makes appeal for help

A disabled man robbed by thugs while he sat in his wheelchair has issued a desperate plea for people to help police catch his assailants.

Michael Gregory, who has Multiple Sclerosis, was travelling along the riverside path near his home in Newport when approached by two men on bikes.

Police say the pair threatened the 57-year-old with a knife before forcing him to hand over a quantity of cash.

Mr Gregory suffered bruising around his medical stomach pump after his head was pulled down by one of the offenders and was also kept in hospital overnight.

Despite extensive inquiries as well as a public appeal for information, one month on from the attack, officers say the two men have yet to be brought to justice.

"I keep thinking that I've lost and they've won," said Mr Gregory. "They frightened me and I haven't had a good day since it happened.

"If anyone knows who is responsible then please contact the police."

Gwent Police said the incident took place along the riverside path towards Lysaght Village between 9.45pm and 10pm on September 12.

After threatening Mr Gregory at knifepoint, the two men were seen riding off on two silver bicycles towards Corporation Road.

The first offender is described as Asian, in his 20s, approximately 5ft 8ins, average build, wearing a baggy grey hooded top and grey tracksuit bottoms.

The second offender is also described as Asian, in his 20s, approximately 5ft 8ins, average build, with a round face, stubble and dark eyes.

Police say he was wearing a grey tracksuit top with a Nike logo, grey tracksuit bottoms with white stripes and white trainers.

Detective Superintendent Ian Roberts described the robbery as a despicable and cowardly crime.

He said: "A victim has been targeted and left terrified by two offenders who have little or no regard for the most vulnerable people in our society.

"I would appeal to members of the public in Newport to assist us by offering us any information they may have, whether they saw something suspicious or have heard any information about who may be responsible."

Anyone with any information is asked to call Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

PA