THE attack on an 81-year-old RAF veteran in Old Town has been described as "horrendous" by a local armed services association.

John McGhee was savagely beaten by at least two men in Croft Road, shortly after leaving the Wheatsheaf Ale House in Old Town at 11.20pm on Easter Monday.

In the brutal attack the men stole £110 in cash, bank cards, and even his bus pass.

The ex-Royal Air Force serviceman, known to many in Swindon as accordionist Johnny Mac, spent all night in hospital after suffering multiple fractures to his face.

Hugh Thompson, the welfare lead at the Swindon branch of the RAF Association, told the Advertiser: "We feel it's a horrendous thing to happen to someone who served their country.

"It highlights a lack of respect among the young people in the community.

"We watch out for these sorts of things and we try to make contact to who ever is available to pass on our sentiments."

The association is offering to pay to recover the costs and to offer welfare and support to Mr McGhee.

In the meantime a crowdfunding page has been set up to cover the costs of the attack which has so far raised more than £1,500.

Wiltshire Police has released a CCTV image and video clip of two men they would like to speak with in connection with the assault.

Anyone with information can call them on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.