The 51-year-old chased the youths who had been repeatedly knocking on his door and then running off.

He cornered one of the teenagers whose shoe had fallen off as he made his escape, but was punched in the face.

When paramedics arrived at Longwood Avenue, Cowplain, at 8.30pm the man was found covered in blood.

Police were called and arrested a 14-year-old boy, from Waterlooville, on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.

The victim, who is today sporting a black eye and bruises, did not want to be identified, but told The News: 'I was at home with my wife just after 8pm when there was banging on the front door.

'I knew exactly what was happening because it's happened before – kids from the council estate on the other side of the woods hammer on the door and then run away thinking it's a bit of a laugh.

'But it isn't. They have cracked 100-year-old glass in my front door on previous occasions.'

He added: 'Last night I caught one of them at the entrance. It was at that point that he thumped me.'

The victim had to be taken to Queen Alexandra Hospital, Cosham, with a suspected fractured cheekbone and nose. He was later discharged.

The boy who was arrested by police is still in custody and is due to be questioned today.

One local resident, who did not want to be named, said: 'We get a lot of trouble with youths.

'You often come out to find your car has been scratched.'

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information should call 0845 045 45 45.