"He was right beside me," Mr Russell said. "He was trying to open the bottom drawer."

The 89-year-old gave the burglar a shock in return.

"I think he didn't think there was anyone here. By the time I got out of bed - because I have a wonky old knee - he was jumping over the front fence."

The burglar smashed a front window to get into the house. He stole a watch, camera, wallet, jars of coins, war medals and a box of mementoes.

Mr Russell is relieved to have escaped uninjured after reports of elderly people being assaulted in their homes.

A local locksmith, who did not want to be named, replaced all the locks at Mr Russell's house for free.

Anyone with information should call Nicole Allen at Footscray crime investigation unit on 83989899.

Milk bar bandit strikes

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a milk bar in Seddon last Tuesday night.

A man wearing a black balaclava and dark clothing entered the Gamon Street store about 5pm and threatened the male and female staff behind the counter with a knife. He stole cash from the till before running from the store.

Call Crime Stoppers, 1800333000, or www.crimestoppers.com.au