A 71-YEAR-OLD man was taken to hospital after being struck on the head and tied up at his home by two intruders.

A police spokesman said the two burglars forced their way into the man's home, in the Lamesley area of Gateshead, at 2.30am on Monday and demanded to know where he kept his money.

They left after hour taking a small amount of cash and their victim's Bedford Astra van, which was later found abandoned nearby.

The pensioner managed to free himself and called the police. He was treated in hospital for bruising to his face and minor cuts, before being discharged.

One of the attackers is in his 40s or 50s with a wizened face, short spiky hair, of stocky build and wearing thick lens glasses. The second man was younger and was referred to as Tommy. Both had North-East accents.

Anyone with information is asked to call 0191-454 7555.