Ex-teacher, 97, robbed

A 97-YEAR-OLD retired schoolteacher has vowed to remain in his home despite being the victim of an aggravated burglary.

Joe Madden, a popular resident of Balbriggan, Co Dublin, came face to face with the knife-wielding burglar.

Mr Madden has told friends he will remain in his Church Street home, where he has lived for more than four decades. He lives alone and is described as highly independent. The burglar, described as being in his early 20s, stole 30 from his victim’s pocket.

Superintendent Tom Gallagher, who visited the former teacher at his home yesterday, said that despite his ordeal he was in great form.

The break-in happened around 5.15pm on Thursday.

Gardaí are appealing for information that might help catch the intruder. Anyone who saw any unusual or suspicious activity in the Church Street area between 5pm and 5.40pm should contact Balbriggan Garda Station.