A BRUTAL attack by burglars on a 92-year-old former doctor in his home is to feature in the TV programme Crimewatch tonight.

The incident, in which three burglars forced their way into the home of William Benson, in Stanley, County Durham, just after midnight on October 17 last year, will be highlighted on the BBC1 show at 9pm.

The burglars demanded money from the pensioner, punched him about the head and threatened him with a large knife, before leaving him stranded in his bed for the whole night.

Dr Benson, who cared for people in his community for more than 50 years, was asleep when the men entered the house.

He was punched in the head, suffering injuries including bruising and a cut arm, before the raiders ransacked his home.

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

He was looked after in a care home after the attack before returning home.

The film, which will be led by Detective Inspector Geoff Smith, will include a reconstruction of the night’s events and evidence that has not yet been made public.

Detectives are travelling to the Crimewatch studios in London and will be on hand to speak to anyone who rings in with information.

Det Insp Smith said he hoped the Crimewatch appeal would provide a breakthrough in the eight-month old case.

“This was a horrendous attack on a defenceless, vulnerable man. But it’s possible not all those who went to the house that night knew what they were getting into,’’ he said.

“I think at least one of the trio may have believed they were simply there to carry out a burglary and never planned on being caught up in such violence.”

A Durham force spokesman added “Despite all the publicity, the crime received at the time, the response to appeals for information was disappointing.

Perhaps somebody needs their memory jogging or they are reluctant to come forward.

“Maybe the crime being featured on Crimewatch could provide that spur.’’ Anyone with information that could be useful to detectives investigating the case is asked to call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.