One Kildare councillor says the community is shocked after 'a violent assault' on a 72-year-old man.

Gardaí say the man disturbed a group of men at his home in Celbridge on Tuesday.

They had gained entry into a lockup shed and were trying to remove property from it.

A number of suspects  ran from the scene - while another escaped on a scrambler bike, which was stolen from the property.

In a follow up search, one teenager was arrested and taken to Leixlip Garda station - where he is being held under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

Gardaí are appealing to any person who may have information to come forward.

Anyone who may have noticed any unusual activity in the Adrass Lower area is also asked to make contact.

While road users who were travelling in Adrass Lower between 9.00pm and 10.00pm on Tuesday - and may have camera footage - are asked to make this footage available to officers.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leixlip Garda station on 01-666-7800, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800-666-111 or any Garda station.

The victim was taken to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown, where his condition is described as serious but stable.

Social Democrats Councillor Nuala Killeen told Lunchtime Live a number of people have spoken to her.

"I've had several approaches this morning from residents who are very concerned - for the welfare and the well-being of that homeowner.

"The burglary was early enough in the evening, it was only around 9.30 in the evening.

"People are just very shocked... there's no need to assault elderly people.

"I know that people are obviously committing a crime, but the savage assaults are just really something new."

She also echoed pleas from Gardaí for witnesses.

"I think people are just very concerned for the welfare and the well-being of that gentleman - and are very shocked that such a violent assault would happen in the area.

"And just really that there's no need for it".

And Councillor Killeen says there are ways for people to help each other, particularly those who are vulnerable.

"I think it's very important for residents to come together and link in with their neighbourhood watch groups.

"There's also elderly alarms, support networks in our area anyway.

"Our local station, and they'd work with the council as well, would encourage people: if there are any vulnerable homeowners out there... to contact the Garda station to register as a vulnerable homeowner.

"It's not a formal process, but it's just really to let people know you might be at-risk or you might need some support".