THREE men burst into the home of a 75-year-old man and stole a large quantity of Indian jewellery during a terrifying burglary.

The pensioner was confronted by the gang as he opened his front door in Eccleston Park on Saturday, December 27 at 5.30pm.

One of the offenders pushed the victim to the floor, threatened him and demanded cash.

They escaped with a large quantity of 22 carat Indian gold jewellery along with cash.

All the offenders ran off on foot and were last seen heading towards Albany Avenue where it is believed a car may have been waiting for them.

Detective Inspector Martin Earl said: "This was a very frightening incident for the victim who was confronted on his own doorstep by a group of men, all of whom had their faces covered.

"Luckily he wasn't hurt but the offenders put him through a terrifying ordeal.  Thankfully, incidents such as this are very rare and I want to take this opportunity to reassure the local community that a thorough investigation is underway to trace the offenders and put them before the courts.

"All of the jewellery that was taken is Indian and very distinctive and I would appeal to any jewellers or pawnbrokers who buy gold to be on the look out for any of the items.

"One of the offenders is also described as wearing a distinctive blue jacket and I would urge anyone with information about this incident, however small, to get in touch with us."

  • Three men aged 18, 20 and 22 years from St Helens were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and have now been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information can call detectives in St Helens CID on 0151 777 6811 or 6013 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.