POLICE are appealing for information after a rural farmhouse was targeted by burglars in Colne.

The burglary took place between 6.30pm and 7pm on Wednesday 18th December at a farm premises on Moss Houses Road in Foulridge.

The men entered through an insecure front door before unplugging the elderly victim’s landline phone and searching the premises for money whilst the victim slept.

The burglars picked up an axe and threatened the homeowner when he woke up before leaving the house with a sum of cash and the victim’s mobile phone.

His neighbour contacted police and an investigation is underway.

DC John Dodrill said: “This is a despicable crime against a vulnerable old man who has repeatedly been targeted and left very shaken up. Someone will know the men responsible and I would urge them to do the right thing and to come forward.”

The three men are described as slim and spoke with local accents. All three were wearing camouflage or khaki clothing with balaclavas and face coverings.

The 65-year-old victim was first targeted by burglars on Wednesday 23rd January when three men entered his home and demanded cash as he was sat watching television.

He handed over several hundred pounds in cash and the offenders pulled the landline from the wall before leaving.

Police believe the two incidents are connected and are urging people to come forward with information by calling police on 101.

People with information can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.