A sword-wielding hero helped police trap a gang of armed robbers.

The mystery man, with a samurai sword, challenged the men, who posed as police to try to rob a woman.

Armed with a hammer, knives and a chain, the gang persuaded the woman to open her door in Laygate, South Shields, at 9.30pm on Monday. They burst in and ransacked her flat. Two plain clothes officers who were passing tried to intervene, but were threatened by a knifeman.

A man with a samurai sword appeared and attacked the knifeman before vanishing.

Three men have been charged. Police are seeking two others. One officer narrowly escaped injury when the knifeman sliced into his clothing.

Det Insp Peter Bent said: "The brave actions of these two officers have prevented anyone being seriously injured. They were extremely courageous in tackling people they knew were armed, even though they were unarmed themselves."

David Eric Bulman, 43, of Lorrain Road, South Shields, has been charged with aggravated burglary and attempted wounding with intent to resist arrest.

Paul Ratcliffe, 42, Alice Street, South Shields, and Lee David Ratcliffe, 29, Westmorland Road, Newcastle, are charged with aggravated burglary.

Call CID on (0191) 454-7555 or Crimestoppers 0800 555111.