A THUG who attacked a 79-year-old man on his doorstep has been jailed for ten years.

Maurice Danes, 37, of Shakespeare Avenue, Taunton, attacked neighbour Michael Langton on February 15 this year.

He was jailed at Taunton Crown Court today (August 30) after admitting handling, attempted robbery and GBH.

In a statement, Mr Langton's children said: "It was a callous and cowardly act.

“Fortunately our father has been well supported by his family but the impact on his life cannot be underestimated.

"We are pleased that the man who committed this horrible attack will now be in prison for a long time and we hope he gives some thought to his actions and the consequences they have had for him, our father and the rest of our family.”

DC Andy Bath added: “This assault was treated very seriously and a thorough investigation has taken place.

"As part of that we quickly arrested Danes while he was still in the same street the attack took place.

"I hope this sentence helps the victim and his family continue to move on from what was a very difficult time for them.

"Fortunately attacks like this are very rare and this sentence shows how seriously the police and courts deal with offenders of such violent crimes."