A COWARDLY would-be thief ran off into the night after they were scared off by a brave Irvine woman in her seventies.

The assailant struck last week at the home of a woman aged 75 in Irvine’s East Road last week in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The lock on the door was broken, however the would-be robber then scarpered when he saw the householder. 

The brave woman told the Times she was grateful to police for their quick response and hopes the culprit can be caught.

She said: “I was glad they never got in the house – this is the first time anything like this has ever happened to me.

“I am grateful to the police who were on the scene quickly – it would be good if he or they can be caught.”

The woman’s furious son added: “I was shocked that in the time of a pandemic human garbage would actually still try to rob folk – you wonder where the piece of chaff learnt that behaviour.

“It would be good to see him caught. People should not have to go through that – you’re obviously always worried it could have ended worse.”

Police confirmed enquiries are still ongoing into the break-in attempt and are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.

Irvine Locality Sgt Raymond Ferguson said: “At about 2.15am on March 24, police were alerted to reports of a male acting suspiciously at a property in East Road, Irvine.

“Police units immediately attended and an area search was carried out, however at this time there was no trace of any suspect person. Enquiries are still ongoing.

“We would ask that anyone with information please contact 101 quoting inc. 0199/24.”