An older couple in small Essex village were locked in a bathroom and threatened with a screwdriver while four thieves searched their home.

The 87-year-old man and 82-year-old woman were said to have been left in shock after the “frightening” incident on Saturday night.

A gang of four burglars forced their way into the couple’s home in The Downs, Stebbing, near Braintree at around 9.30pm.

The men demanded money and jewellery and locked the couple in a bathroom while they searched the home. One of the burglars threatened the couple with a screw driver.

They left with a small amount of cash.

Det Insp Gary Biddle said: “This was a frightening incident and fortunately the victims were not hurt, but have been left in shock.

“This happened in a small village and it’s possible that residents saw people acting suspiciously in the area at the time or in the days leading up to the incident.

“I’d urge anyone with information, however small, to contact us as it could help us with our investigation.”

Descriptions have been given of two of the suspects. One was white, 6ft 4ins tall and of large build. He had his face covered with a black garment.

The second – who threatened the victims with a screwdriver - was white, 5ft 7ins tall, and of medium build. He had short dark hair, wore a light coloured shirt and jeans. He had netting covering his face.

Both suspects were described as having Eastern European accents.

Essex Police are appealing for witnesses to the aggravated burglary, or anyone with CCTV or was in the area at the time and has dash cam footage, to get in touch.

People should contact Pc Gemma White at Braintree CID on 101 quoting reference 42/116033/18.

People can also contact the Crimestoppers charity% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form.