A woman in Earley was threatened with a knife by three men who broke into her home on Wednesday (December 19).

Police are now appealing for witnesses after the aggravated burglary, which saw the victim, a woman in her 40s, being pushed and threatened after stating that she would call the police when she saw a man trying to kick down her door.

He demanded money and property and when the victim opened the door she saw two more men coming towards her. A struggle took place as the victim tried to shut the door but the three men pushed her away.

One man had a knife and threatened the victim with it before one of her sons came downstairs and they managed to push the offenders out of the house.

The men then fled in the direction of Church Street.

Nothing was stolen during the incident.

All of the offenders are described as black and wearing face coverings. The first man is described as 6ft tall and of medium build. He was wearing a grey Puffa-style jacket, black tracksuit trousers, a black beanie hat, dark coloured gloves and holding a knife.

The second offender is described as being 5ft 9ins tall and of medium build. He was wearing black tracksuit trousers.

The third is described as being 5ft 7ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing a black Puffa-style jacket and black trousers.

Investigating officer detective constable Craig Cole, of Newbury Force CID, said: “Detectives are investigating what was a distressing incident in which offenders entered a property and threatened the occupant with a knife.

“I would like to speak to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area at around the time of the offence on Wednesday or who saw anything which may assist our investigation.”

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to report this via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101, quoting reference 43180387276, or make a report online at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/.

To speak to independent charity Crimestoppers instead of police, call 0800 555 111.