This is the bruised face of a woman who was struck with a gun during a terrifying raid on her home.

Two masked thugs broke into the property in Chantler's Hill, Paddock Wood, after breaking glass in its patio doors.

The victim, who is in her 80s, suffered a facial injury after she was beaten with the barrel of an antique firearm.

A man aged in his 70s was also pushed to the floor during the traumatic break-in.

Jewellery was stolen from their bedroom and money was also taken from the woman's purse before the two men fled scene.

DC Dave Evans said: "This was a cowardly assault on two elderly and vulnerable victims who have had to endure a truly terrifying ordeal.

"There can simply be no justification for this level of violence and if these men had even a shred of decency, they would hand themselves in.

"In the meantime, I can assure residents we are using all the resources at our disposal to track the culprits down and bring them to justice.

"You can also help if you saw anything suspicious or have information which may assist our investigation, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

"Even the smallest detail could prove vital."

One of the suspects is described as having a large build and was around 6ft tall, while the other was shorter and slimmer.

Police and ambulance crews attended the property following the raid - which happened around 8.30pm on September 2 - and the victims were taken to hospital as a precaution before being discharged.

Drivers in the area are asked to check dash cams and residents with CCTV or doorbell cameras are asked to review any footage which may assist officers with their enquiries.

If you can help call 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/156914/20

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