Burglar is punched by 94-year-old

A 94-year-old Essex man fought off a burglar who demanded his money by punching him in the face.

Essex Police said the elderly man was confronted by the intruder in his bungalow in Harlow on Thursday night.

He refused to hand over money and punched his assailant who then "ransacked" the elderly man's home.

Det Con Jay Mccreath, from Essex Police, described it as a "despicable" act and said the burglar should be "ashamed".

'Left empty-handed'

A police spokesman said: "The 94-year-old occupant had been retiring for the night when he heard a strange noise elsewhere in the property.

"As he went to investigate, he was confronted by the thief, who demanded the owner hand over some money.

"The resident refused and instead punched his assailant in the face."

This burglar should be ashamed of himself Det Con Jay Mccreath Essex Police

Police said the intruder left empty-handed having ransacked the property. Among the items damaged was a photograph of the man and his deceased wife.

Mr Mccreath said: "This burglar should be ashamed of himself as not only was he foiled by a man nearly three times his age but also that he should stoop to such despicable levels by smashing a photograph of sentimental value."

The burglar was said to have been aged in his late 20s to early 30s. He was described as white with long brown hair and about 5ft 6in tall (1.67m).

Police said he might have a "slightly bruised face" following the incident.