A thug who attacked a have-a-go-hero pensioner in the street has been ordered to give him £150 in compensation. 

Garry Hussey, 29, has also been ordered to undertake six months of anger management classes as part of his sentencing at Croydon Crown Court on Monday (July 16).

At an earlier hearing, Hussey had admitted assaulting 72-year-old Terrance Hayden when he was walking back from a supermarket with his shopping .

In sentencing Hussey, Recorder Miss Sadd said it was "a dreadful offence".

Mr Hayden, who gave evidence at Hussey's trial in May from behind a screen, fought off his attacker after he accused him of taking his money. 

The 72-year-old told the court: "He kept shouting at me, 'give me my money, give me my money', I thought he was trying to rob me. This time, he picked on the wrong man.

"If he thought I was going to give him my pension money which I have worked all my life for he's mistaken. Not on your nelly."

Mr Hayden, who suffered a cut lip and bruised leg as a result of the attack said he was most disappointed about not being able to read his paper as it was covered in egg yolk.

The fearless pensioner said: "I was a bit shaken up afterwards, but at the time, I felt no fear whatsoever.

"Hopefully next time, he will think twice about attacking the elderly - he might just get another surprise."

Neighbours were quick to praise Mr Hayden's bravery, one calling him an "inspiration".

Hussey, who the court heard had four previous convictions for assault, was told by the Judge Miss Recorder C Sadd, he must change his ways.

She said: "There will come a stage if you keep coming in front of the court with these kind of charges you will be put in prison."

Hussey, who takes medication for schizophrenia, had changed medicine around the same time as the attack.

Miss Sadd told Hussey: "I know your drinking lead to you committing the offence.  Although you were informed you should not drink, you did."