RESIDENTS of a house in Whitworth were threatened with a meat cleaver by an burglar wearing a Scream mask while their home was ransacked.

PCSO Chris Hamer, of Rossendale Police, said the offender with the cleaver got walked in through the back door of the property in Market Street.

“One of the victims was in the kitchen,” he said.

“The offender signalled two other offenders to enter the property. They were also covering their faces. The victims were told to be seated while the house was ransacked. Various items were stolen.”

Police urge anyone in the area around 10.30pm on Wednesday, October 16 and may have seen anything suspicious to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.