Healy pledges NI win to pensioner

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NI striker David Healy has sent a message of support to a pensioner robbed of his Christmas savings as he watched the national side play on TV.

Jack Cassidy was enjoying Northern Ireland's 2-1 European win against Denmark on Saturday when thieves broke into his west Belfast home.

The 82-year-old was confronted by four youths who had forced their way into the house in Saint Agnes Drive.

The gang threatened Mr Cassidy before stealing his savings.

They then ransacked the house and urinated in every room, including Mr Cassidy's bed.

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, David Healy said he was very sorry to hear what had happened to the pensioner.

"Obviously he has had a very distressing time and I just want to wish him well," he said.

"Hopefully for Jack and all the other Northern Ireland supporters back home, we will provide some cheer with a great performance and a great result against Spain."

'Manhandled'

Mr Cassidy said he hoped police would step up patrols in the area following the robbery.

"I will never forget the noise they made when they broke in," Mr Cassidy said.

"It was terrible, I was really shook up by it. I actually thought it was a bomb, to tell you the truth.

"The first thing they said to me was, 'Where's your money?' They did not hurt me, they just manhandled me and rummaged through my pockets.

"I had just drawn the heating money out the day before. They also took money I had saved up for Christmas presents."

Saturday night's robbery was not the first time Mr Cassidy's home has been broken into.

Five weeks ago thieves smashed his kitchen window to try to gain entry but were unsuccessful.

Police have appealed for anyone with information about the robbery to contact them.