A MAN and woman were subjected to a “terrifying” and violent ordeal when they were robbed at a home in North Yorkshire.

The shocking burglary happened at a large detached property on Lands Lane, Knaresborough at about 10pm on Thursday, May 14.

Detectives say the occupants of the property, a 48-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were “subjected to a terrifying ordeal” and the man was “very violently” assaulted.

His attackers left him with serious stab wounds to his leg and arm and remains in hospital, where he is receiving treatment. His partner was not injured but was left very shocked following the attack.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said jewellery with a substantial value was stolen during the burglary and detectives are still compiling a list of what was taken. They are now issuing an appeal for witnesses.

It is believed that two of the suspects were black. The third suspect, a white man, was much shorter in height - around 5ft 5in tall.

One lead detectives are following up is a white small BMW coupe-type vehicle that was seen speeding through Knaresborough High Street shortly after the incident.

CCTV footage is being reviewed and a number of pedestrians appear to have turned to see the vehicle as it was driven at high speed through the High Street before it turned right at approximately 10.10pm down Gracious Street.

Detective Inspector Nichola Holden, of North Yorkshire Police, said they were still investigating the motive behind the crime.

“From the information that has been provided so far, it would suggest that the suspects were quite specific in terms of the items they were looking to steal and the motive is still being investigated," she said.

“It may be that the suspects were in the area before the incident and I would ask if the public saw anyone fitting the description of the suspects to call us as soon as possible.

“If the white BMW is not involved then I would ask that the driver of that vehicle to come forward immediately so they can be eliminated, as it remains one of our main leads at the moment.

“Also the knives used in the incident were described as brightly coloured and again I would ask if anyone has any information about them or has found similar looking knives discarded in their gardens or in the local area to get in touch.

DI Holden added: “Forensic examinations are still being conducted, as are house to house enquiries and searches for the knives and any other possible discarded property connected to the burglary.

“I would like to reassure the public that every effort is being made to identify the people responsible for this incident and bring them to justice.”

If you can help the investigation call Harrogate serious crime team on 101 or speak to the force control room.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number 12150079911.