The suspect stole money from him before running off.

He is described as being around 6 feet, late teens to early twenties and wearing a blue and white hooded top.

Levenmouth Chief Inspector Andy Morris said, “This was a particular nasty crime, which was committed against a defenceless elderly citizen of our community, who was shaken but thankfully otherwise uninjured as a result.

“The High Street was particularly busy at the time, so I am sure someone must have seen either the male suspect or the crime being committed and I am appealing for them to come forward and help us with our inquiries.

“I give my personal assurance that any information passed to my staff will be treated in the strictest confidence.”

Fife Constabulary can be contacted on 0845 600 5702 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.