AN ELDERLY man was left terrified and seriously injured when a masked gang burst into his home, assaulted him and stole cash and jewellery.

Three raiders, armed with a crowbar and another blunt weapon, knocked on the door of the house in River Drive, March, before forcing their way past the 69-year-old resident.

When he tried to stop the burglars, he was struck over the head with what is believed to be a metal bar or a cosh. The gang broke into two safes and made off with cash and jewellery.

The victim was taken to Peterborough City Hospital with serious injuries but later discharged. His wife, who is in her 50s, was also at home during the raid. She was threatened but not hurt.

Police are treating the aggravated burglary, which took place at about 7pm yesterday, as an isolated incident.

Detective Constable Mark Yendley, investigating, said: “This was a terrifying experience for the victims who were left shocked and shaken and I am keen to catch the men responsible as soon as possible.

“I would ask anyone who was in the area yesterday evening to consider if they saw anything that could be of use to our inquiry. Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could be prove very important.”

The first man was described as just over 6ft, chubby, wearing dark clothing, a white mask and carrying a crowbar.

The second and third were both about 6ft, thin, and wearing bomber jackets with hooded tops underneath. The hoods were up and tied around their faces. One of these men was carrying a weapon described as a cosh.

Anyone with information should contact DC Yendley, at March Police Station, on 101, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.