DETECTIVES are appealing for information following a burglary in Harlow in which a homeowner was assaulted.

The attack happened when two men smashed their way through the back door of a house on Felmongers at 1:30pm on Friday, December 20th and stole a quantity of jewellery and cash. As they committed the crime, the male homeowner challenged them and was then punched in the face.

The two men ran out with the stolen items and off towards First Avenue.

Investigating Officer, Dc Neale Parker, said: “We’re looking for witnesses who saw these two young men running away and on the nearby Marks Hall roundabout between 1:30-2pm on Friday. Motorists who were travelling during this late lunch-break period could help us with the direction they then subsequently headed off towards.”

The intruders are both described as white and of slim build, with one approximately 6ft 2ins tall, and aged in his late teens or early 20s while his accomplice is approximately 5ft 7ins tall, has a “boyish” face and is aged in his mid-teens.

The victim did not require any medical treatment. He is still helping police ascertain the quantity of items stolen.

A search of the area was carried out, with the police helicopter assisting colleagues on the ground; but to no avail.

Anyone with information in connection with this burglary is urged to contact detectives at Harlow police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.