Avon and Somerset Police have launched an appeal for information after thieves forced their way into a house in the Southdown area of Bath on Friday 9th December.
It happened at about 6.30pm, when the elderly man who was alone in the house at the time answered the door to find a man on his doorstep.
Once he had opened the door he realised two other men were standing to the side.
All three forced their way inside, knocking the householder to the ground. One of the intruders stayed with the man, while the others searched the house.
They were disturbed about 20 minutes later, when the householder’s wife returned home, and made off, pushing past her and taking only an old film camera.
One of the men was described as being in his 30s, about 6ft tall, of muscular build. His skin was said to be of ‘tanned’ appearance and his eyes, hair and moustache were dark coloured. He wore dark clothing including a jacket similar to the one pictured below.
The other two men were said to be wearing dark clothing and hoods, with one about 6ft tall and the other shorter.
DC Alastair Binnie said: “Understandably this incident has left the householders feeling very shaken and distressed. We’re doing everything we can to track down those responsible.
“We’ve carried out a forensic examination of the property and door-to-door enquiries nearby and have arranged for the family to have their home security improved by our Bobby Van.
“I hope that anyone who has information which could help will contact us.”
If you have any information, get in touch online or by calling 101, quoting reference 5216273509. Alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.
Officers always recommend:
- Using a door chain when you have an unexpected caller;
- Fitting motion sensing security lights around your property;
- Keeping tools locked up in a secure shed or garage;
- Making sure garden furniture and wheelie bins can’t be moved to gain access to upstairs windows;
- Locking up and setting the alarm, if you have one, at night as well as when you go out;
- Hiding your keys and handbag or wallet safely out of sight;
- Never leaving your keys in the back of the door or window;
- Keeping jewellery and other high-value items in a safe which has been tested and approved by locksmiths and securely anchored to concrete flooring;
- Keeping photographs and a description of items with sentimental value;
- Using a traceable asset marking liquid on items like jewellery or antiques;
- Using timer light switches to make it look like there’s someone home.
All these things add up to put a burglar off targeting your home – as does joining or setting up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
There’s more home security advice on the police website, www.avonandsomerset.police.uk.
