A BRAVE 79-year-old man escaped unhurt when he tackled a burglar who had broken into his home.

The pensioner was disturbed shortly before 10pm on Friday by the sound of a breaking window at his home in Bower Close, Maidstone.

Police say he stood up to the burglar, pushing him in the face in self-defence after the offender hit him on the arm.

The intruder finally managed to escape with a coin collection and a watch.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have heard or seen anything that night. The offender is described as being white, 40 to 45 years old, stockily built with ginger hair. He was clean-shaven and wore grey jeans and a grey long-sleeved jumper.

Anyone with any information is asked to telephone Maidstone and Malling Police on 01622 608189.