THREE masked robbers armed with planks of wood robbed an elderly couple in their own home.

The intruders barged into the couple's home in Peterlee and threatened them in what police described as a "sickening incident".

Although the victims were not physically hurt, they were left extremely shaken by the incident.

The incident happened at a property in Bailey Rise at around 9pm on Thursday.

The robbers demanded cash and took a number of valuables, before leaving the scene in a car.

Detective Inspector Andy Smith, of Peterlee CID, said: “This is a sickening incident.

“This innocent couple have been targeted for no apparent reason and put through a horrific ordeal.

“I would like to reassure residents that incidents of this nature are very rare in this community and I would urge anyone who has any information to contact us immediately.”

  • Anyone with information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.