A COWARDLY attack on an elderly retired doctor is likely to be dramatised for a TV crime show.

Detectives investigating the beating of 92-year-old William Benson hope the case will be featured on BBC's Crimewatch.

They are in talks with the show's producers and hope the high profile appeal will jog people's memories about how brutal the attack was.

The former GP suffered a sustained attack by three young men who forced their way into his home, at Causey Lodge, Stanley, County Durham, shortly after midnight last October.

Detective Inspector Geoff Smith believes the gang members will be tortured by guilt over the severity of the beating dished out.

He said: "I doubt that three people planned to go in there to beat the living daylights out of a 92-year-old man.

"There is a code of conduct among criminals and very few go round attacking vulnerable people in a cowardly way like this.

"Our theory is that out of these three someone has a conscience and is not happy with what happened that night."

Dr Benson, who has cared for the people in his community for over 50 years, was sleeping when the men entered the property.

He was punched in the head as he lay in bed, suffering injuries to his face, as well as bruising and a cut to his arm before the intruders ransacked his home.

The doctor was left injured for nine hours until a carer arrived and raised the alarm.

He was looked after in a care home immediately after the attack but is now back at home having recovered from his injuries.

Det Insp Smith said: "He was lucid at the time and able to give us some good detail about his attackers but is not able to provide us with any more information.

"It is important that we catch those responsible because we have got people who are prepared to savagely attack an incapable defenceless elderly man in his own home for a sustained period of time.

"They showed no regard for his welfare and left him with no way of seeking help."

Three men were arrested in October but no-one has been charged in relation to the attack.

Det Insp Smith added: "We have active lines of inquiry and are not finished with this investigation."

The show is expected to air in May or June but anyone with information can contact Durham Constabulary on 0345-60-60-365.