A 90-YEAR-OLD man who was subjected to a horrifying attack by robbers in his Woodford Bridge home has vowed never to return home.

Joseph Walker, known locally as John, was set upon by two attackers who broke his ribs, stabbed him, stood on his neck and tried to cut off his toes with secateurs during a terrifying two-hour attack.

A month on from the ordeal, Mr Walker who was tied up is making a strong recovery, but says he cannot face returning to his home.

Mr Walker's daughter-in-law, Jane Walker, who is married to Mr Walker's son Gordon, said he had decided to remain living with them in Hertfordshire following what she described as the "savage" attack.

She told the Guardian: "In light of this horrific incident, John feels unable to return to his home which is very sad because he has lived there very happily for 65 years."

Mrs Walker added: "John would very much like to thank everyone for all the warm wishes, flowers, generosity and get well messages. Despite all the wounds he is doing well and making good progress. He is overwhelmed by the kindness of those who knew him and this has helped to lift his spirits."

Mr Walker added a special thanks to Jo, the postlady, who helped him on the morning of the attack.

He said: "God bless her. She arrived on my door step like a guardian angel and I want to thank her for all the help and assistance in freeing me and phoning the police and emergency services."

Mr Walker has put a message in the local post office because so many people have been asking about him.

The attack happened at about 7am on Thursday, April 3, when Mr Walker confronted the two people after seeing them on the balcony at the rear of his house.

The robbers took their chance and attacked Mr Walker. They punched him in the eye and face before stabbing him in the head, standing on his neck for over a minute and kicking him, breaking five of his ribs.

One of the attackers tried to cut his wrist with a screwdriver before they both jumped on his hands and feet.

The thugs then tried to cut off Mr Walker's toes with a pair of secateurs, but the spring broke.

Mr Walker was then tied up and the assailants ransacked the house before fleeing with £40 and credit cards.

Mrs Walker added: "If they wanted to rob him it was not necessary to do this. That is what makes it really frightening."

Police have renewed the appeal for witnesses to the attack who may have seen the two men in the area of Love Lane around the time of the attack. They were white, in their late 30s, of medium build and wearing dark clothing and well-worn trainers.

One was balding and possibly had a moustache. The other had short dark hair.

Anyone with any information should ring police on 8502 3881.

May 1, 2003 10:00