Masked burglars threatened a couple and their four children with kitchen knives in a late-night attack at their Bradford home.

The two men burst into the house in Aberdeen Place, Lidget Green, Bradford, at midnight as the children's 42-year-old father locked up.

As he bolted the front door the pair, who were waiting outside, burst in through the back door brandishing the knives.

They were wearing black stockings over their faces and threatened the father, demanding cash and property.

After a short time, they forced the man, his wife and four children aged between ten and 18, into an upstairs bedroom.

They threatened to cause the family serious injury before grabbing a substantial amount of cash and running off.

Although no-one was injured in the incident on Friday, detectives say it left the children severely traumatised.

Acting Detective Inspector Paul Fountain, of Toller Lane CID, said: "This was a rare, but appalling attack. The men were armed and obviously prepared to use violence. We need to catch them as soon as possible.

"They were equipped with knives and made threats of serious violence to the family, including the children.

"I would appeal to any witnesses, or indeed members of the criminal fraternity who know the people responsible, to contact us immediately."

One of the men is described as of Asian appearance, aged between 20 and 25, 5ft 8ins to 6ft, slim, with short black hair, wearing dark clothing

His accomplice is described as male, of mixed race, 5ft 6ins, aged about 20, of stocky build and also wearing black clothing.

Witnesses or anyone with information which may help police with their inquiries are asked to contact Toller Lane CID on Bradford 376885.

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