A FRIGHTENED man escaped through a window in fear after raiders carrying what was believed to be a taser weapon stormed his property on New Year's Day.

The 53-year-old man was viciously attacked after a gang of five men burst their way in to the Oxford Road house.

It immediately became clear one of the men was carrying some sort of weapon, which police officers believe was an electric stunning device.

The gang began to assault the victim, who managed to flee by climbing through a window and out onto the street near the junction of Valentia Road.

The raiders, who stole cash and other items following the attack, were being hunted by police today and anyone with information should contact the force.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "At around 5.20pm on Sunday five offenders forced entry to a property on Oxford Road near the junction with Valentia Road.

"The offenders assaulted the victim, a 53 year-old man, who escaped the property by climbing through a window. One of the offenders was carrying what appeared to be an electric stun device.

"A quantity of money and other items were stolen during the incident."

After making his escape, the man contacted the emergency services to them what happened.

He suffered cuts to his head but he did not need to go to hospital.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Marius York, added: "We believe this to be an isolated incident and would like to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in this area at this time.

"Anyone with any information that could assist us with our investigation can contact me via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101."