TWO would-be robbers are regretting targeting an Ipswich pensioner today after the 69-year-old called on his 14-stone rottweiler for support when they pounced.

TWO would-be robbers are regretting targeting an Ipswich pensioner today after the 69-year-old called on his 14-stone rottweiler for support when they pounced.

The retiree from Burrell Road was walking his dog in Gippeswyk Park at about 6.15pm yesterday when two men jumped out from either side of the changing rooms in the park.

One of the men threatened to hurt him and demanded money but the quick-thinking victim promptly called his dog for help and the thugs soon got a nasty surprise.

The hefty pooch responded by chasing one of the men away before biting the second man on his left buttock, causing his jeans to rip.

Both men fled in the direction of Lancaster Road and the dog-walker was left unharmed but shaken.

A spokesman for Suffolk Police said: “Thankfully he was saved by his rottweiler.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have seen the offenders following the confrontation.

The first man was black, over six feet tall, of stocky build and he was wearing a black woolly hat, a grey zip up coat and blue jeans.

The second man was also black, around 5ft 8in and of slim build.

Anyone with information should call Suffolk police on 01473 613500.