ESSEX police are investigating a burglary during which a pensioner was tied up and robbed in his own home.

ESSEX police are investigating a burglary during which a pensioner was tied up and robbed in his own home.

Detectives in Colchester have asked the public to review their home security and are linking the burglary to two similar incidents in the last eleven days.

In the latest burglary, which happened at about 8.30am this morning, a man entered a bungalow in Conifer Close through an unlocked back door and threatened a 77-year-old man who handed over several hundred pounds before being tied up.

The victim, who was in ill-health but suffered only minor bruising, managed to get to his front door where he was freed by nearby refuse collectors.

The man responsible is described as white, in his 30s, 5ft 10ins, and of slim build. He was wearing a black jacket, grey trousers, black gloves, a black woollen hat and had the bottom of his face covered.

Anyone who has any information that may assist police is asked to contact detectives at Colchester on 0300 333 4444 or to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.