A FAMILY is recovering from shock after a ‘frightening’ armed raid on their Poole home.

Young children were among those threatened by three masked burglars, who were armed with assorted tools.

The trio forced their way into the Ashley Road property around 9.15pm on Friday and threatened the occupants.

They escaped with what Dorset Police described as ‘high value Asian jewellery’ and cash.

Police have opened an investigation and are treating the attack as aggravated burglary.

Detective Sergeant Andy Haworth, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was a very frightening ordeal for the occupants but fortunately nobody was harmed during the incident.

“I am appealing for anyone with information about those responsible to contact us as soon as possible.

“In addition, I would like to hear from anyone who has seen the described men or has witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time.

“Also, if anyone is offered Asian jewellery in unusual circumstances, they should report this to police.”

The exact weapons used in the attack have not been confirmed by detectives at this stage. Nor has the particular area of Ashley Road where the burglary took place. However, Ashley Road would have still been busy at the time of the incident.

All three offenders are described as white, in their early twenties and spoke with local accents.

One was about five feet four inches tall, of medium build, with pale skin and blue eyes. He was wearing a grey hooded top, dark trousers, gloves and work boots.

The second suspect was also five feet four inches tall but of slim build. He was wearing a black jacket with red stripes on the sleeves with the hood up. He has a goatee-type beard.

The third offender was also of medium build.

Contact Dorset Police with information at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting reference 55170006538.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.