An elderly resident was attacked in his home in central Dundee yesterday afternoon with his assailant making off with his new cellphone and keys.

The 80-year-old, who preferred not to have his name or address disclosed, was surprised in his kitchen shortly after returning from grocery shopping with his wife.

The man grabbed the homeowner by his collar and in so doing, took his cellphone before fleeing and scaling the fence.

The resident made an attempt to follow his attacker in his vehicle but decided to rather report the attack at the police station.

Later, an iron also stolen from the house was found discarded in the garden. The incident has left the couple shaken but unharmed physically.

Three weeks ago, the same couple were robbed of cash when a man gained access into the house.  It is not clear if the same man is responsible for both attacks.

Police are following up.