Police comandeer golf buggies to catch burglar on course

Police officers commandeered golf buggies in vain attempt to catch a burglar who fled onto a course.

The assailant fled onto the West Lancs golf course to make his escape as officers and the force helicopter converged on the scene 

An elderly woman was attacked by the man, who had forced his way into her house in Hightown, Merseyside.

The would-be thief fled empty-handed after a 62-year-old neighbour, who was also hurt, rang 999 and bravely intervened.

The assailant fled down Blundell Road on to sand dunes and then the West Lancs golf club to make his escape as officers and the force helicopter converged on the scene.

And to the surprise of golfers on the links course, which straddles the Sefton coast, police took command of electric golf buggies as they tried in vain to apprehend their suspect.

Detective inspector Jon Smith said: "This was a cowardly and callous attack on two vulnerable elderly women, which has left them very shaken and traumatised.

"We are absolutely determined to find this man, but we need the community's help to bring him to justice. I would like to reassure residents that incidents like this are thankfully very rare."
It is understood both victims were taken to hospital for treatment following the assault on Tuesday lunchtime.
Both were later released. Police said the raider was of slim-to-medium build, with a bald head and wearing a grey fleece jacket.
The suspect is said to be aged between 20 and 40.