A WOMAN and children were left traumatised after three men broke into their house and made threats with a knife.

It happened in Brotton, in east Cleveland, at about 11.15pm on Saturday.

Police say a woman in her 20s, who was at her home in Lilac Crescent with her three children, was woken by three men, who had broken into the property.

The woman and her baby were threatened with a knife.

No one was injured and the men made off in a silver or white vehicle, believed to be a new shape Vauxhall Astra.

Officers believe it made off in the direction of Skelton.

Detective Sergeant Iona Leigh-Jones, from Redcar and Cleveland CID, said: “This was a nasty incident which was traumatising for the woman and children involved.

"As a result of what happened we have additional patrols in the area.

“We have a number of enquiries ongoing and we would like to ask any members of the public who may have seen anything or anyone who may have information regarding a white or silver new shape Astra in the area or being driven towards Skelton to get in touch with us as it could be incredibly important to our investigation.”

Detectives investigating the incident are appealing to trace three males.

They first was wearing a white mask (similar to a coronavirus face mask) with blue lines covering the nose and mouth.

The second was wearing a blue/black jacket with red lining and dark bottoms and the third was wearing a black scarf covering his face and dark clothing.

Two males, aged 24 and 26, have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in police custody.

Anyone who may information or anyone who may have dash cam footage which could help officers with the investigation is asked to contact Redcar and Cleveland CID on 101, quoting event number 48628.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.