A TERRIFIED pensioner was attacked by masked burglars armed with an 18 inch screwdriver while in bed.

Three men forced their way into an elderly couple's property in London Road, Earley, Wokingham, at about 10.45pm on Tuesday August 6.

A 71-year-old man and a 69-year-old woman were at home, in bed, at the time.

Two of the offenders attacked the victim before searching the property, taking cash and jewellery, and then fleeing the scene in a getaway car with a potential fourth offender.

The victim sustained injuries to his head and was treated at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

He has since been discharged.

Thames Valley Police are appealing for information following the aggravated burglary.

Investigating officer, detective constable Shannon Walker of Force CID said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims, who were in bed at the time of the offence.

“The three offenders were all wearing masks and were armed with an 18 inch yellow handled screwdriver.

“The offenders fled the scene in a dark coloured four-door vehicle with rear tinted windows, which was then driven down Shepherds Hill towards Reading.

“It is believed that a fourth offender was waiting in the vehicle to drive them away.

“The first offender who entered the property is a white man, in his thirties, slim, with dark hair.

“The other two offenders who entered the property were mixed race men.

“I would urge anyone with any information about the incident to think of the victims and come forward.

“You can contact the police by visiting a police station, calling 101, or leaving information on our website at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ quoting investigation number 431902422187.

“I would ask residents to be vigilant of anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood and please refrain from keeping large amounts of cash and expensive or sentimental jewellery at home.

“If you see or hear anything suspicious then report it to police immediately.”