Woman threatened with machetes in pre-Christmas burglary in Bedford

Just after midnight, three men wearing masks forced their way into a property in Queensbury Close demanding to know where the jewellery and the safe were.

They then threatened the victim with machetes before tying her up, gagging her and covering her head with a pillow case.

They then carried out a search of the property and took several items of value, such as rings, phones and cash. All three men were described as dark skinned and were wearing white masks, white gloves, white hooded tops and black bottoms, possibly with patterns or logos on.

Detective Constable Gareth Jones, investigating said: “This was an extremely frightening incident, which has left the victim very shaken.

“We are urging for anyone who was in the area at the time and has any information to get in touch with us as this may help us to trace the people responsible.”

Anyone with any information can contact police through the force’s online reporting centre or by calling 101, quoting reference 10 of 22 December.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.