A WHITEFIELD pensioner was struck with a tyre lever by a thug who broke into his home at the weekend.

The burglar gained entry to the 74-year-old man's home in Egerton Road after smashing the glass panel of the front door.

He threatened the pensioner before hitting him with the instrument. He then ran from the house, apparently leaving empty-handed.

Police say the victim sustained bruising to his arm. Anyone with information about the incident, which happened at 11.15pm on Sunday (Sept 29) , should ring Whitefield CID on 856 8248.

The thug is described as being aged in his early 20s, 5ft 8in, of slim build with short, fair hair and wearing a dark blue or black suit type jacket and dark trousers. He spoke with a local accent.