A vulnerable, defenceless pensioner was in hospital today after he was viciously beaten in his Bradford home.

Detectives last night described the apparently motiveless assault on 64-year-old Rodney Gledhill as a “sustained and cowardly” attack.

Mr Gledhill suffered severe bruising to his face and a cut hand, possible caused by a knife as he tried to defend himself from the thugs.

Police have appealed for information about the incident at Mr Gledhill’s home in St Margaret’s Avenue, Holme Wood, at about 7.15pm on Tuesday.

Detective Inspector Ian Bryar, of Bradford South CID, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a sustained attack on a vulnerable member of the community which has resulted in some visibly serious injuries.

“This was a cowardly attack on a defenceless man in his home.

“I am therefore calling on any witnesses, or anyone with information who was in the area at the time of this incident, to come forward immediately.

“If you can help officers in their investigations, please contact Bradford South CID on 0845 6060606, or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.”