DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after burglars tried to break into the home of a terrified couple aged in their 90s.

Police are investigating the attempted burglary on The Fryth, Basildon, in which nothing was taken, but the elderly couple have been left extremely shaken, according to their family.

The couple’s front door also sustained damage in the incident on Sunday evening.

The pair’s grandson took to social media to express his anger at the crooks, and urged others to keep an eye on family members if they’re vulnerable and elderly.

He also said that after analysing the 90-year-old’s CCTV images from the front of their house, he had seen one man trying to break in, while another sat in a nearby car keeping lookout.

However police believe it may have just been one person on foot.

Fortunately the burglars failed to get into the home but the concern is homes could be targeted.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating following reports of an attempted burglary in Basildon on Sunday, January 12.

“A front door on The Fryth was damaged as someone tried to gain access to a property just before 7.45pm.

“Nothing was taken and the elderly occupants were shaken, but unharmed.

“A white man, believed to be in his mid-40s, and wearing dark clothing, left on foot in the direction of Whitmore Way.

“Our enquiries are ongoing.

“Anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage which could help, is asked to call Basildon CID on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/6421/20.” Alternatively, to report information anonymously, you can contact crime fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.