WEB EXCLUSIVE: Gary Taylor hailed by residents after fending off intruders who were armed with handguns and a knife. Gary suffered minor stab wounds.

THE elder son of a Honiton couple, attacked in their own home by armed raiders, has been hailed a hero.

Gary Taylor was at home, in Rowcroft Close, with parents David and Jenny when they were targeted by two masked men armed with handguns and a knife early on Sunday night.

Gary, the eldest of four sons, swung into action when his mother was threatened, according to Midweek Herald sources.

Detectives have told the family not to speak to the press, but outraged residents have imparted the full story to The Midweek Herald.

Because this newspaper does not wish to impede the investigation, we cannot reveal the full facts.

We can state that Gary sustained minor stab wounds during the incident and that his presence saved the day.

The Taylors are honest and respected members of the community in Honiton.

Police are not stating what the motive for the attack was.

“Gary is a hero,” said a family friend.

That sentiment has been echoed by dozens of Herald readers who know the family.

Everyone in Honiton wishes the Taylors well and wants the offenders caught as soon as possible,