Five masked men, some armed with hammers, demanded cash and jewellery from a home after forcing their way in and threatening the occupants.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the raid on a home in York Road, Southend, which took place late last night.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Police were called to reports of an aggravated burglary at an address in York Road, Southend at around 10.30pm yesterday (Tuesday, February 28).

"Five men, four of them armed with hammers, forced their way into a property, threatened the occupants and demanded they hand over money and jewellery.

"Items were taken and the men left.

"The men all had their faces covered with scarves, hats or sunglasses.

"Anyone with any information is asked to contact Essex Police on 101 quoting incident 1061 of 28/02 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."