A MAN suffered head injuries in what police described as a "disgraceful act of violence" during a burglary at his home.

Detectives are appealing for information after they were called to reports of the aggravated burglary in Porplar Road, Thornaby, at about 1.15pm yesterday (Friday, March 7).

A 69-year-old man received head injuries in his home when he was confronted by the intruder.

The victim managed to escape out of the back door before the suspect fleed the property through the front.

The victim received treatment in hospital before being released.

Detective Inspector Matt Murphy-King said: "This was a disgraceful act of violence on an elderly man. We have a number of high visibility patrols in the area and I want to reassure residents that this is an isolated incident."

An 18-year-old man from Thornaby has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and is in police custody.

Police are appealing for information on 101.