Son's anguish after dad (81) attacked on way to morning prayers

Yoseff Francis Ahmed said his dad, a father of four and grandfather of 12, was the victim of a “disgusting crime”.

The attack happened in Fitzwilliam Road, Eastwood, at 5.25am on Monday, prompting police to issue an appeal for witnesses.

Mr Ahmed said his father, who was left in critical condition with serious injuries after the attack, had “lived and worked in Rotherham all his adult life and so has his wife”.

He added: “They were both immigrants to England since the late 1950s.

“This disgusting crime should be seen for what it is, a terrible crime which we hope will not take his life or his quality of life away.

“We hoped that after all these years he would be safe taking his morning walk to prayers but unfortunately as someone said these days society can’t guarantee that to any of us.

“The only way around this is through faith in God and humanity as the good people of Rotherham are showing. Most people are not criminals regardless of creed or colour.

“My father is the beloved grandfather to my seven children and they have only recently seen him.

“His nature is gentle and unconfrontational so it’s shocking and sickening that they couldn’t get whatever they were after by merely asking.

“They are criminals of the lowest order — I hope justice is served and that inside they become known as OAP-bashing thugs so they remain in the lowest order.”

Mr Ahmed asked the public to get in touch with the police they had any information, adding: “That’s the way to stop crime and criminals acting with impunity.”