A woman was tied up and threatened with a knife during a ‘horrific ‘ burglary in Colchester this morning - just weeks after a similar incident in the area.

Police were called shortly after 5am today, Monday August 14, to Acacia Avenue in the Greenstead area of Colchester after receiving a report that a man forced entry to a house while the occupants were asleep.

According to a police spokesman the victim was tied up and threatened with a knife.

She was left ‘shaken and distressed’ by the ordeal but uninjured.

Investigating officer Detective Inspector Kelly Thurston said: “This is a horrific incident, which has left a woman shaken and distressed.

“No one should feel unsafe in their own home and we will do all we can to prevent this from happening again.

“Residents are reminded to keep their property safe and secure, even during the summer.

“Please make sure you lock doors, remove your keys from the door locks and place them in a key cupboard and close windows, especially if you reside in a ground floor or first floor property.

“If you saw anyone acting suspiciously or have any information we encourage you to contact us on 101 so we can bring the person responsible to justice.”

The aggravated burglary comes just weeks after another woman was tied up in her home and threatened with a knife during a break-in on Monday, July 10 in Avon Way in Greenstead.

Her debit card was taken and large amount of cash later withdrawn.

At the time, Detective Inspector Gary Biddle said, “This is a very serious incident on an innocent member of the public.

“Essex Police do not tolerate violent crime of any sort let alone on people in their own home.”

Officers are urging witnesses and anyone with information to contact Colchester CID on 11 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.