A MASKED intruder robbed a 68-year-old businessman at knifepoint in his own home last week, police revealed yesterday.

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 last 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.

He then drove off in the car, registration NU54 WEA, along Central Avenue towards a mini roundabout, at the junction of Church Street and Main Street.

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

The thief is described as 5ft 8in to 5ft 10in, 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.