Defending my home against intruders

[CharlesHarris]

Improvised weapons which have been used by US homeowners in the US, probably legal in UK are:

Dry chemical fire extinguisher, both a distraction and irritant, which can be used as an impact weapon when empty.

A study broom with wood handle was successfully used by my mother on several occasions over the years.

A mop can be used similarly.

Fireplace tools?

Sporting equipment such as golf clubs, etc.

Long handled house cleaning implements are an obvious choice, having better standoff capability than short kitchen knives, etc. and are readily viewed as expedient, non-lethal, but can be effective when used by trained persons as impact weapons.