AN ARMED robber pointed a gun at an elderly couple before kidnapping the woman and fleeing with her in their car.

The man approached a house in Lymington  wearing swimming goggles and a tartan scarf over his face and pointed a gun at the woman, aged in her 60s.

During a struggle inside the house in Rookes Lane the elderly man, aged in his 70s, suffered a minor head injury when money was demanded and around £100 was taken.

Police said no shots were fired but the man took the woman away in their silver Peugeot 207 convertible and sped around the area erratically for 15 minutes demanding money before taking her home and later abandoned the vehicle in Newenham Road.

Hampshire Constabulary's New Forest District Commander Chief Inspector Tony Rowlinson said it all happened between 9.30am and 11.30am on the morning of Friday, December 14.

He said: "This was a shocking crime committed against a couple who were subjected to an unprovoked terrifying attack in their own home and car.

“I would like to praise their immense courage in dealing with the robber who was violent towards them.

Chief Inspector Tony Rowlinson added: "I am appealing directly to the suspect to consider the consequences of his actions.

“From our initial enquiries, we understand you might be facing personal and painful circumstances in which you feel trapped and desperate for money.

“However, think long and hard about the distress and fear you are causing. “I am imploring you to explore your conscience and do the right thing by contacting police to tell us where you are before you make any more reckless choices, which could hurt innocent people. Please phone us on 101.

"My appeal extends to any family or friends who think they may know this person or their current whereabouts. “Please contact the police with what you know about this man.

Chief Inspector Tony Rowlinson said they are linking the crime to a similar robbery at Brockenhurst railway station on December 5.

He said: "I am calling on the community to be alert in spotting and reporting any suspicious behaviour or any information about the suspect's identity or location.

“We cannot confirm at this time whether the gun seen by the couple was real or an imitation firearm, but my advice to members of the public is to phone police on 999 immediately if you see someone matching the suspect's description.

“Do not approach him; his behaviour is unpredictable, and he could become distressed and agitated if approached."

Police also want to speak to the driver of a 4 x 4 who police believe saw the robber driving the car in West Lane, Everton.

The suspect was described being around 5 ft 10 ins tall, with dark a hair, wearing a dark blue or black beanie hat, which was folded up. He was wearing a fluorescent jacket and white, dirty gloves.

Any witnesses or anyone with information can call Hampshire police on 101.