OAP cleared of robbery

A pensioner was cleared yesterday of trying to rob her elderly friend at knifepoint.

Doris Foulis, 61, was accused of wearing a ski mask to hold up Jeanette Hetherington, 70, during an attack in which her friend broke her leg. Prosecutors claimed she had burst into her neighbour's home in Newcastle armed with a knife and demanded money.

It was claimed Mrs Foulis pushed Mrs Hetherington down stairs, breaking her thigh bone. Mrs Hetherington told jurors at Newcastle Crown Court she instantly recognised her assailant's voice and "waddle walk", prompting her to shout out "Doris, I know it's you".

Mrs Foulis denied a charge of attempted robbery. Other charges of grievous bodily harm and possession of a blade were dropped by the prosecution.