Pensioner in critical condition after Rotherham assault

Police were called to Fitzwilliam Road area of Rotherham at 5.25am this morning and discovered an 81-year-old man with head injuries.

The pensioners was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition. South Yorkshire Police have stepped their patrols in the area and are describing the incident as an “assault”.

Detective Sergeant John Yoxall, from South Yorkshire Police’s Crime Unit, said: “At this stage we are keeping an open mind on the motive behind the incident.

“The injuries this man has received are significant and I understand that local people will be concerned.

“I need the local community to help us and I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the Fitzwilliam Road area in the early hours of this morning, and can offer any information to assist the investigation, to come forward and speak to us.

“Patrols by neighbourhood officers have been increased in the area to reassure the local community.”