A MAN who tackled an armed break-in thief late last night was slashed on his face and leg by the raider.

The 37-year-old victim was visiting a relative when he heard a disturbance outside and saw that the garden shed was being targeted.

He challenged and then chased the hoodie-wearing thief but was seriously assaulted by him with what has been described as a 'pointed knuckleduster'.

The incident, at Manor Crescent in Gourock, occurred at around 10.30pm and police have this morning issued an appeal for information.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff, of Greenock CID, said: "The man had been visiting a family member when he was disturbed by the presence of someone in his relative's shed.

"He challenged the male, who had stolen a bike and jumped a fence, and then pursued him.

"The man was struck to his face and leg with possibly a pointed knuckleduster-type weapon.

"The bike was recovered from nearby woods."

The attacker is described as being 6ft tall and he was wearing a grey hoodie and dark trousers.

Any information should be passed to the police via the 101 number, or anonymously through Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.