A MAN was attacked in the early hours after disturbing two burglars who had broken into his home.

The householder was hit on the head and then punched in the stomach. Police say he suffered a minor head injury but did not need hospital treatment.

The incident happened at Longleat Gardens, New Milton, at 4.40am this morning.

A police spokesman said: “The occupant of the house disturbed two men who were in the process of stealing his property. The rest of the man's family were asleep at the time.

“When confronting the offenders, the man was assaulted.”

Playstation games, a quantity of cash and an engagement ring were stolen, plus several DVDs and various items of sporting equipment.

Both burglars were white men in their late teens or early twenties. One was about 6ft 5in and was wearing a black baseball cap with yellow writing.

Ring New Milton police station on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.