AN elderly man was threatened with a knife during a burglary at his home.
An intruder got into the house in Easington Lane, near Houghton-le-Spring, through a back door, but was disturbed by the householder.
He then threatened the occupant with a knife, before escaping empty handed.
Detective Sergeant Simon Auty said: "Luckily the occupant was not injured but understandably he was left incredibly shaken."
The burglary took place in Lyons Avenue at 7pm on Monday, December 15.
Police enquiries are being carried out into the burglary and officers are appealing for anyone with information.
DS Auty said: "We're carrying out enquiries and are asking anyone who was in Easington Lane and saw anyone acting suspiciously or saw anything that was out of the ordinary to contact police.
"Extra officers are in the area both to carry out enquiries into the burglary and to also offer reassurance to local residents."
Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.
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