A COUPLE in Bacup were robbed by three men who called at their home posing as plain-clothes police officers.

Within seconds it became apparent that the trio were not genuine officers when they attacked a 42-year-old man, at the Fairview Crescent property.

One of the three men discharged a gas cannister during the confrontation, which happened as his 47-year-old partner looked on in horror.

The three men seized cash and jewellery from the shocked householders before fleeing in a car parked in nearby Tong Lane, just after 7.30pm on Sunday.

Detectives from Rossendale CID say the trio then escaped along Pennine Road towards Bacup fire station.

Det Sgt Phil Turner said: "We believe that they posed as plain-clothes police officers in order to get the occupiers to open their front door.

"The man injuries were relatively minor but a number of items, including cash and jewellery, were taken by the men.

"There was a gas cannister left at the scene but we cannot be sure whether it was CS gas that was discharged at this point."

Police have issued descriptions of two of the three men following the incident, which is being treated as aggravated burglary.

The first man was white, in his late 30s, around 6ft tall, medium build, with medium-length scruffy brown hair. He wore a brown jacket and blue jeans.

Meanwhile a second man was also white, slightly younger than his accomplice, around 5ft 8in tall, medium build, with cropped blond hair. He wore a white tracksuit top and jeans.

Police say that all three of the intruders spoke with local accents.

DS Turner added: "It appears to be a one-off incident but was very frightening for the couple concerned."

Potential witnesses are asked to contact Rossendale CID on 01706 237442 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.