A farmer living alone in Co. Offaly has been hospitalised after being assaulted during a burglary of his home in the early hours of this morning.

At approximately 2:00am this morning (November 4), intruders forced their way into the farmer’s home in Glasderry beg, Brosna.

It is understood that the man, who is in his 50s and lives alone, was then assaulted by the intruders who unlawfully entered his home. Following this the victim was then locked into a shed, while the criminals fled the scene.

The alarm was raised by the farmer a short time later when he managed to escape from the shed, according to Gardai. He suffered minor injuries during the attack.

An ambulance was then called for the farmer who was taken to Tullamore hospital for treatment. His injuries are not life threatening.

It is understood that the intruders made off with a small amount of cash.

The scene is currently being examined and enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Birr Garda Station on: 057-9169710 or the Garda Confidential Line on: 1800-666-111.

Speaking at Birr Garda Station today, Superintendent Martin Cashen said: “We are appealing to farmers, residents and landowners in the Shinrone area to keep a look out for clothing possibly discarded in fields or hedges.

“Also, any suspicious persons or vehicles in the Drumakeenan and Glassderry Beg areas on the N62 Birr to Roscrea road that was noticed last night or in the days leading up to the incident [should be reported].

“If anything is located please do not touch it and contact Birr Garda Station immediately on: 057-9169710.”