A DISABLED Hampshire pensioner has been praised by a judge for his bravery after tackling an axeman outside his home.

Ex Royal Marine James Gavagan confronted a man brandishing the axe after he heard a row in the street outside his home at Hounsdown near Totton.

With no thought for his own safety the 68-year-old, who walks with the aid of crutches, went towards the man and managed to grab the axe from him.

Mr Gavagan's bravery was described to Southampton Crown Court where Judge John Boggis commended him for his heroism.

Appearing before the court was Thomas Hackworth, 27, of Players Crescent, Hounsdown, who had armed himself with the axe. He was jailed for 18 months after admitting affray.

Prosecutor Peter Glenser said Mr Gavagan, who is registered disabled, had "acted very bravely in all the circumstances" in confronting Hackworth.

The judge commended Mr Gavagan, who is registered disabled, for his bravery in dealing with what must have been "an awful situation".

After the case Mr Gavagan said: "I was in the Royal Marines and can handle myself because of the training.

"But there was nothing brave about what I did. I'm not looking for praise at all. I did what any other man in my position would have done."

The court heard that the furore had broken out over a garden gnome. Hackworth's brother had taken the ornament from a front garden in Players Crescent, thinking it belonged to a friend, but had got the wrong house number. The gnome broke and he was confronted by an angry owner.

Hackworth came on the scene as trouble flared. He was worried about his brother, who had just had a plate inserted in his cheek after an assault, and armed himself with a felling axe.

Mr Glenser said: "He used the axe in a threatening manner, holding it at shoulder height and forcing others to retreat."

Mr Gavagan then came out of his house and disarmed Hackworth, who was then arrested by the police.

Gareth Branston, defending, said Hackworth had tried to frighten others and no one had been hurt.

"He was clearly concerned about his younger brother who had this plate inserted. He feared another blow there would have serious consequences.

"He cannot deny he should not have done it. It was inappropriate and he over-reacted. He had no intention of injuring anyone with the axe. He is no danger to the public."

The court heard Hackworth had 13 previous convictions covering 20 offences.