Geoffrey Platt, 61, of Gatesgarth Close, Newby, said he is now frightened to go out in case it happens again.

Thieves made off with items including a portable DVD player, a quantity of tobacco and around £130 in cash.

Mr Platt, who is disabled and suffers with breathing and back problems, said: “This has never happened to me before and when it hit me I was just in a daze.

“It was bad enough having to go to the funeral but it has been awful having to deal with this too.”

The intruders got in by reaching through a back window, which had been left open slightly, and opening a set of patio doors.

Mr Platt, who used to work for an undertaker, said: “I wish I hadn’t left the window open – there was a voice at the back of my mind telling me not to. But I am still unhappy with the security at the back of the property.”

The warden-controlled property is owned by Yorkshire Coast Homes and Mr Platt says he has raised security concerns with them in the past.

He says the gate is too low and – coupled with a high hedge and numerous places to hide – this makes the area a “burglar’s paradise”.

Mr Platt said: “Most of the residents are elderly and some are deaf. I think the area should be made safer.”

Mike Randall, housing services manager for Yorkshire Coast Homes, said: “I have thoroughly looked at our records and cannot find any complaints from Mr Platt regarding the inadequacy of the gates along the footpath.

The resident warden is not aware of Mr Platt’s concerns.

Mr Randall said: “The metal security gates have been in place many years. We will inspect the gates in liaison with Crime Prevention to get their view regarding the adequacy or otherwise of the gate and act on the advice given.”

Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.

The DVD player has now been recovered.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area on Wednesday between 11.50am and 5.10pm are asked to contact Scarborough Police on 0845 6060247.