POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after an aggravated burglary near York.

The incident took place at about 7.50pm on Monday, January 26 in Askham Richard, when three men wearing balaclavas and brandishing hammers and knives broke into a house in the village.

The offenders threatened the homeowners and searched the house before leaving with jewellery, cash and keys to a white Mercedes E-Class convertible.

The suspects then left the scene in the Mercedes which was later found abandoned in Haggs Lane near the village of Colton, near Leeds.

Police are appealing to anyone who was in Askham Richard on Monday night between 6.30pm and 8.30pm and saw any suspicious people, vehicles or activity, including the white Mercedes leaving the village, to contact them.

They are also appealing to anyone who was in the area of Askham Richard, Bilborough, the A64 and Colton, who saw a white Mercedes convertible, the occupants of the vehicle or saw anyone parking the vehicle or abandoning it and getting into another, to contact them.

Detective Inspector Alan Rowan of York CID, said: “This was a very frightening experience for the householders who were left shaken and distressed. Thankfully, they did not suffer any physically injuries during their ordeal.

“We believe that the burglary was planned and the property was targeted by the suspects and that this was not an opportunist crime.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for York CID, or email Yorkcid@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.

Quote reference 1215004335 when passing on information.