Man jailed over 'appalling' robbery of 76-year-old in Fife

A man has been jailed for six years for the "appalling" robbery of a 76-year-old woman in her Fife home.

Garry Roughley bound the woman's wrists, blindfolded her, tied her to a chair and taped her mouth - before stealing jewellery, bank cards and a mobile phone.

It happened at around 11pm on May 4 2018 on Lundin Road in Crossford.

Roughley, 39, remained at large for more than two years - despite several police appeals and the case appearing on TV's Crimewatch.

He was finally traced in Newcastle in October last year, and admitted a series of charges in court.

In addition to six years behind bars, he will spend a further three years on licence.

CCTV of Roughley at a petrol station after his attack - taken from an earlier police appeal

Detective Inspector Kelly McEwan of Fife Division Public Protection Unit said: "This was a truly appalling crime and one of the most shocking that I have experienced in over 22 years police service.

"Garry Roughley left the elderly victim gagged and tied to a chair with no means of escape or summoning help. Had it not been for the good fortune of her neighbour spotting her light still on at a late hour and going to check on her, the consequences could have been catastrophic.

"This was a very distressing experience for her and although it is not something she will be able to forget, I hope that the sentencing will provide some comfort to her and her family."