CASH was stolen by three masked men who carried out a burglary at a house in Alderholt.

Police say a man knocked on the door of the property while the occupants were out, then shortly afterwards the three hopped over a fence and broke into the house via the back door.

An undisclosed amount of money was taken in the daytime raid, but all three men were caught on CCTV camera.

Dorset Police have now released images of the men in a bid to identify them.

Detective Sergeant Karen Penn, of Dorset Police’s priority crime team, said: “Officers have been carrying out a number of enquiries into this incident so far, including an examination of the scene and house-to-house visits.

“I am issuing CCTV images of three men I would like to try and identify as part of my enquiries.

"While I appreciate they have their faces covered, I am hoping someone may recognise them from their build and clothing.

"If anyone has any information about who they are, please get in touch.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the Hillbury Road area around the relevant time.”

The burglary took place at an address in Hillbury Road, Alderholt, between 2-3.30pm on Wednesday, March 3.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210035313.

Alternatively, to stay anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.