BURGLARS punched a 71-year-old man and held a knife to his throat after forcing their way into his home

The assault happened between 6pm and 7pm on April 2 when the victim answered a knock at his door in Highbury New Park, Highbury.

Two men pushed their way in, one holding a knife to his throat while the other went into the bedroom.

The victim managed to break free and get out of the flat to call for help and when a neighbour appeared, the suspects ran away.

The victim suffered minor cuts and bruises to his face.

Police Constable Nick Pamboris said: β€œAn elderly and defenceless man was assaulted by these suspects and is traumatised as a result. At this stage we do not know whether anything was stolen but we are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area to contact us in confidence on 020 7421 0172 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”