A gang of men armed with a knife threatened a mother and her three children in what's been described as a 'distressing and worrying' robbery.

The woman was at home with her daughter and two sons at around 9.10pm on Tuesday when four men knocked on the door in Medhurst Gardens.

The family were threatened with a knife, before the thieves stole laptops, mobile phones and iPods.

They also took a cash card and a small quantity of cash, but no-one was hurt in the raid.

DC James Greenidge said: “This was clearly a distressing and worrying incident for the family who were no doubt shocked to be confronted by a group of men in their own home.”

“I would appeal to anyone who recognises this man, described as white, between the ages of 18 and 20, around 6ft and wearing a dark-coloured hooded top to contact me immediately.”

Call 01474 366001 quoting reference XY/818/14 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.