POLICE have released an e-fit of a suspect who pinned down a man in his 70s while her alleged accomplice robbed him during a "terrifying ordeal" in his own home.

A Durham Police spokesperson said: "The victim was at his home in Trotter Terrace, Shotton Colliery, at around 8.30pm on Tuesday, January 7, when a man and a woman broke in through an unlocked door.

"He was pinned to his sofa by the woman while the man stole his wallet, a heavy gold belcher bracelet and two men’s gold belcher-style necklaces, one of which had the Star of David on it."

The woman is described as being white, in her early thirties, around 5ft 7in tall, of medium build with waist-length straight blonde hair.

She was wearing a light cream jacket, blue jeans and short brown boots.

The spokesperson added: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim who was robbed in his own home – a place where he should be able to feel safe.

“We would like to speak to anyone who recognises the woman, or who may have any information which could help our investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact Durham Police on 101, quoting crime reference number CRI00243656 with any information.

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.