Police are searching for a man who carried out a "despicable" attack on an elderly deaf couple inside their sheltered housing flat.

The incident began at 10.50pm on Thursday when an 81-year-old man, who is profoundly deaf, was approached by man in his mid to late 30s after leaving a chip shop on Abercromby Street in Glasgow.

The man followed the pensioner back to his nearby flat and managed to gain entry to the property.

Once inside, the man attacked the 81-year-old and his 80-year-old wife, who is also deaf.

Police said the couple would have been unable to communicate with their attacker, who was last seen running along Stevenson Street towards Tobago Street.

Emergency services were called out and the husband and wife were taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment.

Officers said the woman is receiving treatment for a broken hip and facial injuries and her husband is being treated for injuries to his face and hand.

Hospital staff describe both of their conditions as stable.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

The man is described as white, around 6ft, in his mid to late 30s, of slim build and with dark hair, which is distinctively receding at the top. He was also wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and glasses.

Detective sergeant Stephen McGrath from London Road CID said: "This was a cowardly and despicable assault on an elderly couple who would not have been able to communicate with their attacker.

"Officers are currently examining CCTV footage and conducting door-to-door enquiries, however, we need the support of the local community to find whoever is responsible.

"At this time the motive for this crime is unclear however one line of enquiry is that it may have been an attempted robbery.

"From our enquiries so far we can see that, prior to the incident, the suspect stopped to speak to a couple on Abercromby Street whilst he was in the company of the victim and it is absolutely critical that we speak to them as soon as possible.

"I would also appeal to anyone who was in the surrounding area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed what happened to contact officers via 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.

"Additional patrols will also be in the surrounding area to provide reassurance to the local community and I would urge anyone with concerns or information to approach the officers who will be more than happy to speak with them."