AN RAF veteran aged 92 caused a masked intruder in his home to flee empty-handed after hitting him with a hammer.

Les Bailey, of Bacon Place, Malpas, Newport, was being visited at home by a neighbour's daughter when the masked man burst in and demanded money and jewellery. Mr Bailey attacked him with a hammer before being knocked to the ground by the intruder.

Mr Bailey said: "He rung the doorbell twice and I asked the girl to go and see who it is. There was a boy behind her and he had his hands round her.

"I hit him right in the face - he was a maniac and knocked me down on the floor." The attack happened at about 4.45pm on July 19, Mr Bailey was taken to hospital with head, arm and rib injuries.

DC Dave Wakham said: "The attacker fled in some distress. We are appealing for anybody who saw any suspicious males hanging around the Bacon Place area.

"The man was about 5ft 9ins tall and believed to of been Mediterranean appearance. He was wearing dark clothing with distinctive white trainers and had with him a home-made balaclava.

"We are also appealing for anybody who has noticed a friend or relative with an unexplained injury to the face or head."

Anyone with information should call Bettws police on 01633 245210.