BURGLARS attacked a man who walked in on them as they searched his kitchen.

Police said Jason Wildman, of Holme Street, Colne, was about to take his dog for a walk at around 2.25am on Thursday and as he opened the back door his dog began to bark.

When he went into the kitchen to find out why his pet was distressed, he saw one of the intruders.

Sgt John Fryer, of Colne police, said: "He tried to detain the man so that he could call the police and have him arrested, but then a second man appeared from behind him and punched him in the face and the two burglars ran away."

They left with £100 a cream-coloured purse.

They have also taken DNA samples from Mr Wildman.

Sgt Fryer said: "The couple were shaken up by it all but they called the police straight away and we got the dog patrols out but unfortunately we didn't manage to trace anyone.

"With the DNA swabs from Mr Wildman, though, we will be able to quickly eliminate or identify any suspects, so we are very hopeful that these offenders will be brought to justice."

Anyone with information should contact police on 01282 425001, or confidentially though Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.