Pensioner threatened with knife during early-morning burglary in Harlow

Police are investigating an incident in Harlow in which a 78-year-old woman was threatened in her own home.

Officers were called to Radburn Close shortly before 1.45am on Sunday 14 December, after a man entered the property demanding money and bank cards and threatened the woman with a knife.

The victim was not physically harmed, but the suspect left with some cash and bank cards, which have since been cancelled. She is understandably shaken and is being supported by family and specialist officers.

At this stage, no arrests have been made and police say a number of targeted lines of enquiry are being pursued.

The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 9ins tall, and wearing a blue hat.

Detective Inspector Paul Marks has urged residents in Radburn Close, The Rundells and surrounding areas to check CCTV between 1.15am and 1.45am. Taxi drivers or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at that time are also asked to review their recordings and contact police if they spot anything suspicious.