Police are appealing for information after a woman in her 80s was threatened with a knife during an aggravated burglary yesterday.

There were reports at around 8pm that four men entered an address in Long Lane and made threats to the victim inside.

They then took jewellery, cash and war medals of a sentimental value before running off towards Victoria Lane.

The men smashed a window pane in the front door to get into the property and may have shouted that they were police officers.

The first suspect has been described as being white, around 5ft 6ins tall, of a stocky build and wore a black anorak coat with his hood up.

The second suspect has been described as being white, around 5ft 8ins tall and wore a greyish coloured coat.

The third suspect has been described as being white, around 5ft 8ins tall and wore a long sleeved green jacket with fur around the hood. 

Sergeant Sophie Hammonds, of Grays CID, said: “The victim is receiving support from her family and our officers. She wasn’t hurt but is shaken by the incident. 

“Her neighbours and other people within her neighbourhood have knocked at her door and have asked how she is. I’d like to thank them for their support and care.

“I would urge people within the area to search their gardens following this incident. We have already recovered a knife from one garden. If you find anything, please leave it in place and call us.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who has information about suspicious activity before this incident or from anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage.

“Please call Grays CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/44053/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”