A DISABLED man was left to crawl back to his care home after muggers tipped him out of his wheelchair before stealing his holiday money.

The 63-year-old told the Recorder of his half-hour of terror which ended with him dragging his osteoporosis-ridden legs home, where staff alerted police.

David Barker, who has lived at Oakfield Lodge, in Albert Road, Ilford for 21 years, was targeted on Monday after buying a lottery ticket at a nearby shop.

“I couldn’t hear anyone behind me, so it was an even bigger shock when they appeared from nowhere,” he said.

“All I could say was ‘No! No!’ – fear took over, and when they pushed over my wheelchair, I didn’t know what would be coming next.”

The foldable wheelchair collapsed as it hit the ground, and the thugs took �400 – his savings for a holiday this weekend to see his brother in Clacton, Essex – before also snatching Mr Barker’s bag of medicine, including several asthma pumps, and medical records, as well as his keys.

“These things are useless to them. The only reason I took the money out with me is because a year ago my home was burgled, so now I only feel safe if I keep everything with me,” added Mr Barker.

“Without this money, I can’t go on holiday or see my brother. It’s really changed everything – I had to get all my locks changed.”

Mr Barker was treated in hospital for extensive bruising.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attack, which happened between 5.30pm and 6pm. The robbers are described as two black men, both aged between 20 and 30 years old, and both 5ft 10.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Con Kamal Jethwa on 020 8345 2760 or call Crimestoppers on 0800555111.