Masked robbers carry out "nasty attack" at old people's centre

Police are appealing for information to the robbery at the centre on Elm Green Lane, Conisbrough on Wednesday between 6pm and 6.30pm.

A police spokesman said: “The women, aged 47 and 76, were preparing for their weekly club which is attended by 18 women living nearby.

“There was a knock at the door and, presuming it was one of the women attending the club, they answered it.

“They were then sprayed in the face by an unknown substance and two men entered stealing their handbags.”

Detectives believe they may have been targeted as the women have formed a Christmas savings club, which was due to be paid out.

But the money had not been kept at the premises and the handbags were taken instead.

The two women sustained injuries to their faces as a result of the substance that was sprayed. They were both taken to Doncaster Royal Infirmary. 

The men were wearing balaclavas and believed to be wearing grey coloured clothes.

Stolen property was later found abandoned near Maltby.

Police are considering the possibility that the suspects travelled from Maltby or are from that area.

Det Insp Dave Mayfield said: “This was a particularly nasty attack on two vulnerable women.

“I hope that members of the local community will feel obliged to assist us in this case and ask anyone with information to come forward.

“We believe the group was targeted because of the money they had been collecting and I would advise people to be cautious and vigilant when handling any amount of money.”

q Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have information that will help the police trace those responsible is asked to contact DC Andy Shields on 0114 2202020 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.