POLICE are hunting two men who attacked a pensioner before ransacking her house.

The 78-year-old woman sustained facial injuries after being was knocked to the ground when two men approached her at her home in Morton Road, Stewarton at around 11am today (Thursday, September 27).

Police say the two men offered to carry out work for the elderly victim, but when she declined they turned nasty.

One of the men pushed the woman to the ground before they both made their way through the house, ransacking one room,  but they ultimately left empty handed.

Police say the victim did not require hospital treatment but has been left very distressed by what took place.

The first suspect is described as white, mid to late 30s, 5ft 10 to 5ft 11, of average build, with dark hair and had a local accent.

The second man is also white, in his teens, 5ft 1 to 5ft 2, thin build, short brown hair, wearing a light top with long sleeves. 

Detective Inspector Stephen McCulloch, Kilmarnock CID, said: “The men made off on foot from the house but got into a small hatchback car.

“We believe that these men have been in the area offering to carry out work and so would appeal to anyone who had been approached, or indeed who knows who they are, to contact police.

“Thankfully, on this occasion they didn’t steal anything from the house but the fact that the lady was assaulted and they went through the house, shows they obviously have no concern for anyone but themselves and it is imperative that we trace them as soon as possible.

“If you have any information that will assist officers with their enquiry, then please contact Kilmarnock CID via 101 quoting reference number 1336/27/09.  Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be called in confidence on 0800 555 111.”