I suspect that much of this debate is down to ignorance of the legal position, inspite of the 'reasonable' principle largely being common sense. But then not many punters will have the benefit of your background, so its a shame you chose to chastise posters ('facepalm' etc) rather than encourage...
Don't know the full details of this incident but do feel strongly that you should be able to defend your family and property without fear of prosecution, subject to the 'reasonable force' argument. If the bad guys/girls are prepared to threaten serious violence within your property then they...