A man was so furious at police calling at his home he armed himself with a machete and attacked a police car... with an officer inside just inches from injury.

Enraged Michael Mankelow, 58, saw red on February 4 when police called at his Downs Road, Walmer, home to interview him.

He slammed his front door in their faces, refusing to cooperate.

But as the officers headed back to their unmarked patrol car, Mankelow returned brandishing a machete and making threats to them, Canterbury Crown Court heard.

He then attacked their patrol car, with PC Bilney inside, smashing several windows and doors as he attempted to reach the officer.

As PC Bilney tried to start the car, Mankelow smashed through the windscreen with the machete... the blade cutting into the steering wheel directly in front of PC Bilney’s face.

His frenzied attack only came to a stop when the officers managed to start their car and drive away.

Mankelow was arrested moments later as other officers responding to PC Bilney’s emergency call arrived.

"This was a terrifying attack on a police officer going about his duties to protect and serve the people of Kent" - DI Andy Bidmead

Detective Inspector Andy Bidmead said: "This was a terrifying attack on a police officer going about his duties to protect and serve the people of Kent.

"PC Bilney was understandably very shaken after the incident and was lucky not to have been seriously injured or worse.

"We’re satisfied the court has found Mankelow guilty. He’s a dangerous man and he’s facing a considerable time in prison."

Mankelow was found guilty of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

He was also convicted of possessing an offensive weapon and criminal damage, but was cleared of an alternative charge of attempted murder.

He is due to be sentenced on a date yet to be confirmed in September.