It was a violent robbery that shocked a Hampshire community.

A gang brandishing a crowbar and a knife burst into a 60-year-old man’s home before pinning him to the floor, stealing his cash and making off with wrapped Christmas presents.

Now people in Hamble are rallying around to support him after being left sickened by the raid.

As reported, the terrified victim was punched in the face after the hooded gang kicked in the front door of his home in Chadwick Way.

They demanded property as they held him on the floor, searching the flat and his pockets before stealing presents and £55 in cash.

Detectives are still hunting the thugs, who were seen fleeing with hooded tops and face scarves covering their faces. Last night villagers said they had been left “shocked and saddened” after learning of the man’s frightening ordeal.

Parish clerk Brendan Gibbs said news of the crime had quickly spread across the community.

And the Hamble-based stairlift-building company Liftability has even decided to make a donation of £100.

Martin Murley, director of the Ensign Way-based firm, said: “Yesterday a headline hit the papers which shocked and saddened people local to the Hamble area.

“The story of the poor gentleman of Chadwick Way in Hamble, who was attacked by five youths and robbed of not only his money, but of the Christmas presents he’d purchased for his family and friends, was distressing for everyone to hear.

“At Liftability we work with the elderly and vulnerable every day, so we know how important it is to be quick to react when someone is in their time of need.

“This is why we’d like to offer the victim of this horrific crime, our neighbour, a gift of £100.”

Police say they have since recovered some of the Christmas presents, which were abandoned on a nearby pathway.

PC Louise Hawkins is appealing for information from anyone who saw the group shortly after the raid, which happened at 11.25pm on Monday. It is believed the offenders may have had a car parked in a nearby street.

“The victim is very shocked and is recovering with his family. He has no idea why his home was attacked.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw an unfamiliar group or vehicle in the Chadwick Way area of Hamble on Monday night to contact me at Eastleigh CID,” PC Hawkins said.

Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.