POLICE have released an image of a man they want to question after a pensioner was stabbed in his home by burglars.

The 74-year-old man, who lives in a block of residential flats for elderly and vulnerable people, discovered an intruder in the communal lounge and challenged him.

But a second intruder then attacked the pensioner with a knife and both fled empty handed, leaving the residents with minor wounds and very shaken.

Detectives have released an e-fit image of one of the suspects, which is described as a good likeness by the victim.

The offender is described as white, aged 17-18, around 5ft 5ins tall, of stocky build, with fair hair cut short at the sides but longer on the top and parted in the middle.

He was wearing a light blue or grey hooded top and bottoms, and spoke with a local accent.

The second suspect is described as white, aged in his 30s, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 9ins and of thin build. He was wearing dark clothing and had dark, curly, ‘messy’ hair.

The incident took place at Sydenham Court, in Berkshire Close, Portsmouth, at 10.30pm on October 15, although the details and image have only been released today.

DC Roy Kimber of Fratton CID said: “This was a violent attack on an elderly gentleman who was simply trying to look out for his neighbours.

"They clearly targeted a residential block which is supposed to be a safe haven for some of the more vulnerable members of the community, and then when challenged by a brave resident resorted to a cowardly attack on him."

Anyone with any information should call 101 quoting reference 44150359013, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.