A MASKED intruder robbed a 68-year-old businessman at knife point in his own home last week, Durham police revealed today.

The robber raided a house in Shildon, County Durham, and threatened the owner before making off with his £14,000 car and cash.

The victim had just returned to his home in the town's Central Parade shortly before 6pm on Thursday when the incident occurred.

As he made a cup of tea he heard a knock at the door and when he answered it was confronted by a man who forced his way into the house, threatened him with a knife and demanded property.

After the victim handed over £100 the robber also stole the keys to a black two-year-old Audi A3 car worth £14,000.

The burglar then drove off in the car, registration number NU54WEA, up Central Avenue towards a mini roundabout, at the junction of Church Street and Main Street, before disappearing into the night.

The victim, who lives with his daughter, went outside and told a passer-by of his ordeal before calling police.

Detectives believe the robber was lying in wait for the victim to return home, possibly in nearby Byerley Park.

Detective Constable Michael Trodden, of Bishop Auckland CID, said: "The victim is in the habit of arriving home at differing times and it may be the thief was in the area for some time before the incident and may have been was seen by people living there or though passing through.

"We would like to hear from anyone who can shed light on the identity of the culprit."

The thief is described as 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall, skinny and wore a green coat with the hood up and a navy or black scarf to mask his face.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 0845-6060365 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.