A SAVAGE home invader who launched a terrifying hammer attack on a disabled ex-chaplain and his wife was last night beginning an indefinite sentence behind bars.

Drug addict Christopher Stevenson – a serial offender free on a suspended sentence – targeted David and Elizabeth Swales as they returned from a Bible reading class at their church.

He forced his way into the couple’s retirement home in Amble, Northumberland, warning he had come for their money.

He tipped double amputee Mr Swales, 68, from his wheelchair before battering his 52-year-old wife unconscious. Mrs Swales, whose face and hair were left covered in blood, had been struck 20 times – at least five of those blows with the hammer.

Her helpless husband, who was kicked in the stomach as he lay on the floor, could only watch and listen as Mrs Swales was beaten.

Stephenson, 28, from Acklington Road, Amble, has been given an indefinite sentence for public protection after admitting two robbery charges on March 30.

And the couple – who settled in Northumberland from Devon after enjoying holidays in the region – have vowed their ordeal will not drive them from their retirement home.

“We got over 70 cards from wellwishers and because of that and the fact we have not allowed this man to drive us out, we have decided we will stay,” retired nurse Mrs Swales said. “We will not move away from here”.

Mrs Swales had just pushed her husband into the hallway and turned to close the front door when Stephenson struck.