A WOMAN in her 80s was terrified when three masked burglars, armed with crowbars or screwdrivers, burst into her home.

The three entered a property in Cricklade Road on Monday, February 13, between 6-6.15pm via a patio door and demanded money.

They stole about £40 before leaving via the same patio door.

The incident happened while the elderly female occupant, in her 80s, was at home with a relative, aged in his 60s.

Detective Constable Sarah Munday said: "This was understandably a terrifying ordeal for the occupants but fortunately nobody was seriously injured.

"We take reports of this nature very seriously and officers attended the scene immediately. Extensive searches were carried out, with the assistance of a police dog, but the offenders had left the scene. We have been making extensive enquiries since we received this report, including obtaining statements from the victims, house-to-house enquiries and exploring any possible CCTV sightings.

"This is a very busy road and I would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time who saw or heard anything suspicious."

The first man is described as white, about 6ft tall, aged around 25, and of slim build.

The second man is described as white, about 6ft 2ins tall, aged 28 and of large build. It is thought he spoke with an Irish accent.

The third man is described as white, about 25, and around 5ft 9ins tall. He was said to be of a stocky build.

It is believed the men had crowbars or screwdrivers, all three were wearing black caps and had their faces covered.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.