TWO men “manhandled” an elderly woman when they stole her rent money after forcing their way into her Oxford home.

The men knocked on the 82-year-old’s front door, but when she did not answer they broke into her home in Headington through the back door.

Police said they threatened the frightened woman and manhandled her as they searched her house, before stealing the cash.

The robbery happened at about 10pm on Saturday.

Det Sgt Pauline Heilbron said: “This is a despicable crime against an innocent elderly person.

“We are appealing for witnesses and anyone who may know who is responsible to contact us with information as soon as possible.”

Detectives have arrested two men, both aged 45, from Oxford on suspicion of robbery in connection with the incident. They were later released on bail until tomorrow.

Anyone with information should call Det Sgt Heilbron on 101 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.