BRAVE neighbours who tried to catch a gunman who attacked a disabled war veteran have been praised by police officers.

As revealed in the BEN last night John Berry, 79, was left bruised and battered after a man - wielding a hand gun - and woman forced their way into his flat on the Thornbank estate, Deane.

After ransacking his home the two thugs - both in their mid 20s and wearing dark clothing - ran from the property empty handed as Mr Berry screamed for help.

The former Second World War soldier who served in India and Burma was left with bruises and cuts to his arms, head and body.

But as his attackers tried to run from the scene two neighbours of the pensioner, who had heard his cries for help, grappled with the pair on the pavement.

After a fierce struggle the two neighbours - both men aged in their 40s and 60s - were forced to let go of the gunman and his woman accomplice.

Today detectives hunting the attackers paid tribute to the two men's brave actions following the raid at 7pm on Monday.

Det Sgt Jack Charnock of Bolton Central CID said: "We would not recommend people to approach an armed offinder but they have to be praised for what they did."

Police are still keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the attackers running from the scene.

Anyone with information should contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5640 or Crimestopperts on free phone 0800 555111.