POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an aggravated burglary last night (Wednesday, September 24).

A police spokesman said the burglar entered a house in Mortimer Street, Sunderland, through an empty door, at 11.55pm.

He threatened a man and woman with a knife, before stealing a mobile phone and a BMW car and driving off in the stolen vehicle. No one was injured during the incident.

The stolen BMW was spotted by police on Neville Road at about 4.30am this morning (Thursday, September 25).

The driver then reversed and sped away, causing damage to the police car. The stolen car has not yet been recovered .

Police have arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary. He is in custody helping police with their inquiries.

Officers are appealing for witnesses in both Mortimer Street and Neville Road and anyone who was in the area and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious is asked to contact police.

Police are carrying out inquiries in the area and additional officers are on patrol to reassure the community.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, extension 69191, quoting log number 1391 of 24/09/14 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.