Police are re-appealing for information after a 79-year-old man was attacked with his own walking stick, which left him "absolutely terrified".

The victim suffered bruises on the back of his legs after two men broke into his house in Orchard Close, Radlett, on Christmas Eve at 1.30am and assaulted him.

He had woken up after hearing a noise and gone to search his house before being confronted.

Despite attacking him, the intruders left empty handed.

Badly shaken, the victim called a neighbour who rushed over to provide comfort and treatment, before calling police.

The suspects are described as tall, dressed in dark clothing with hoods and balaclavas.

Detective Constable Ben Heath, who is investigating, said: "We are still working hard to identify those responsible for this burglary and we have already explored a number of avenues, but I would urge anyone who may have seen a group of men matching the description loitering in the area or running away from the scene around the time stated to please get in touch if they have not done so already.”

Anyone with any information should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via 101, quoting crime reference J1/17/5432 or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.