Pensioner attacked after asking man to stop urinating on partner's house

A pensioner who asked a man to stop urinating on his partner's house has been beaten up in a "horrendous act of brutality" that left him with severe facial injuries.

Derek Laidlaw, 70, was punched repeatedly in the face and head after the man, who he had asked to stop urinating against his partner's home in Failsworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, pinned him against a wall.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have released an image of Mr Laidlaw with severe bruising and facial swelling in a bid for information.

Police said that even after Mr Laidlaw had collapsed on the floor, having already been punched in the face, the attacker continued with his attack.

Another man who was passing managed to pull the attacker away, before the attacker fled towards Kew Road, Failsworth.

The attack took place at about 10.45pm on Saturday July 2.

Officers from GMP have issued a description of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the assault.

He is described as white, of a stocky/muscular build and in his late 40s or early 50s. He has dark hair with dark eyebrows and was wearing dark clothing.

Detective Constable Kelly Bragg of GMP's Oldham borough, said: "This is a horrendous act of brutality that has left a man with severe injuries to his face.

"I'm hoping that by issuing this photograph, people will see the true extent of Derek's injuries and want to work with us to bring his attacker to justice.

"If anyone knows a man fitting this description, who may have been in the area at the time, please get in touch with us."

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.