A COURAGEOUS 85-year-old man fought back against a burglar who was demanding his money – by hitting out at the crook with his walking stick.

The offender broke into the pensioner's home on Ramford Street, Parr at 9.50pm on Wednesday.

But he was forced to flee empty handed when the elderly victim wielded his walking stick in self defence.

The pensioner was uninjured but has been left shaken by his ordeal, say police.

The burglar is described as wearing dark hooded clothing and having his face covered.

Detective Sergeant Dave Glover said: “This is a shocking crime that has left the victim extremely upset.

“It is despicable to target the most vulnerable people in our community and I am sure local residents would agree that the person responsible needs to be identified and brought to justice.

“We are providing support to the victim and his family.

“I encourage any person with information about this crime to contact us via 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.”