A couple were subjected to a terrifying ordeal when they were held captive by masked raiders who took thousands of pounds worth of jewellery from their home.

The gang of three or four balaclava-clad men stormed into a house in Cam Lane, Clayton-le-Woods.

Detective Sergeant Damian Wignall, of Coppull CID, said the couple, who are in their 50s, and a guest of the family, were restrained before thousands of pounds of rings, watches, and necklaces were taken from the home.

The attack happened on Tuesday, October 25, between 6pm and 8.20pm.

"If anyone saw anything suspicious in the Cuerden Valley area, then we would like them to get in touch with Coppull CID," said Det Sgt Wignall.

He said it was a very wet and dark night and all that was known about the robbers was that one had a foreign accent and the others had Liverpudlian accents.

"All I will say is that the victims were restrained. Although excessive violence was not used, once people are restrained they are very vulnerable," added DS Wignall.

"The occupiers, a husband and wife, and a visitor did not resist, they were passive."

He said he did not have an estimate on the value of the jewellery, both gentlemen's and ladies' items, but it would run to thousands of pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Coppull CID on 01257 246267, or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.