A FAMILY were threatened in their own home during an violent burglary in Sale Moor.

At around 11pm on July 21, a 65-year-old man and 62-year-old woman were smoking a cigarette in the garage of their home, on Pimmcroft Way, when three men walked up to them and demanded money.

One of the men hit the woman in her face, causing her to fall to the ground before attacking the other victim.

Hearing the disturbance, their 40-year-old son tried to help his parents but he was threatened with a knife.

The trio searched the house and took two briefcases containing paperwork and keys to a Nissan Almera before they drove off in the car towards Northern Moor.

The car was later found abandoned on Southwick Road.

The men are described as being in their 20s or 30s and wore dark clothing and balaclavas.

A 38-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has been bailed until August 22.

Det Con Paul Walls said: “All three showed aggression and were holding a glass bottle and hammer when committing the burglary.

"The son was chased and he was forced to lock himself in the bathroom, before one of them tried to force the door down.

“The family have understandably been left in shock and do not understand why they have been targeted in such a way.

“The Almera was stolen but almost immediately dumped on Southwick Road before all three ran off. I would ask anyone who may have seen these men to contact police as soon as possible so we can bring them to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 7530 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.