Police have issued an urgent appeal for witnesses after three raiders used a screwdriver to threaten a man at home with his partner and their two children.

The ordeal happened last night in Knatts Valley Road, an isolated single track just south of West Kingsdown.

A police spokesman said today: "Three men are reported to have broken into a property and used a screwdriver to threaten a man inside.

"A woman and two children were also reported to be in the property."

The incident, being treated as an aggravated burglary, happened around 11.30pm.

The men stole the man’s mobile phone before leaving the property. They are not reported to have stolen anything else.

The suspects are said to be two white men and one black man.

All three are believed to have been wearing balaclavas and left the property on foot.

Anyone with information should call the police appeals line on 01622 604100 quoting reference number 17-1450 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For burglary prevention police have issued the following advice at https://www.kent.police.uk/burglary/