A COUPLE were left terrified after a gunman burst into their home demanding cash before threatening to shoot their two young children.

The man dragged a father away from his two young children, aged two years and six months, who he was feeding at the time in the house in Oban Drive, Blackburn.

He pushed a single-barrelled shotgun into the chest of the man, a local car trader, before demanding money. He escaped with £2,500, but warned he would be back if the couple told the police.

The incident happened last Wednesday, but details have not been released by police until now because the couple, who have not been named, were so shaken by their ordeal that they have struggled to give details.

DS Paul Withers, of Blackburn CID, said the gunman knocked on a side door of the house at 6pm. When he door was answered by a woman, he forced his way in and dragged her into the living room. He then grabbed the father and demanded cash.

DS Withers said: "They were terrified. We think it is a one-off but would appeal to the public for any information. It was a nasty attack."

The offender is described as in his 20s or 30s and proportionate in size to his height. His head was shaven but with around half-and-inch of growth on it. He is also described as having 'pointed' features.

Anyone with any information can call Blackburn CID on 01254 353569 or 0800 555 111.