A COUPLE in their 60s suffered a terrifying ordeal when a gunman burst into their home and demanded money.

The armed attacker held a gun to the man's head and threatened him before making off with pouches of tobacco.

The couple, who live in Corsham Road, Penhill, have gone to stay with relatives in Weymouth as they are too frightened to stay at their own home.

The couple's son-in-law, who was at the house yesterday to fit a burglar alarm, said the ordeal came just a week after the house was broken into.

Police are appealing for information on the incident, which happened at about 9pm on Friday.

Detective Constable Rob Harrington, of Swindon CID, said: "There is no doubt this would have been a terrifying experience for the residents.

"We are keen to get this man identified and dealt with as soon as possible because we don't like this sort of thing happening in our town."

The man was black and wearing dark clothing.

DC Harrington said: "A green holdall was taken and I am quite keen to track that down.

"I imagine that bag has been searched and dumped and if any residents come across it it could be a big help."

The couple were not hurt in the raid but DC Harrington said: "It's a male and a female in their 60s. They have been incredibly frightened by the ordeal.

"They weren't physically injured but the emotional shock is significant, especially with the lady."

Police believe the gunman made off on foot and they have carried out door-to-door inquiries in the area.

However, they are still keen to hear from anyone who might have a vital piece of information.

"We are appealing for any witnesses that we haven't managed to speak to in the street or anyone else in Penhill because obviously we can't go to every house," DC Harrington said.

"If somebody noticed him going past, especially if he was carrying a green holdall, we want to hear from them."

The couple's son-in-law said: "They got burgled a week before and then this happened, so they don't feel safe.

"They have a chain on the door but the man said my father-in-law's name so he thought he knew him.

"When he opened the door the man barged in and was just demanding money.

"They are not hurt but you can understand the trauma of having a gun pointed at your head.

"They don't feel safe here. They didn't want to stay in the house."

Police are also keen to hear from anyone who is offered tobacco for sale.

Anyone with information should call Swindon police on 0845 408 7000.