Three teenage girls were left in a “distressed and shocked” state after intruders barged into their house and stole jewellery.

The girls fled into a different part of the house and hid in another room while the three men searched through belongings.

The incident took place at a house in Chippendale Rise, a residential street just off Rhodesway, near the boundary between Allerton and Girlington. The parents of the girls were out at the time. Airedale and North Bradford CID would like to speak to anyone who has information about the incident, which occurred between 7.50pm and 8.10pm on Friday.

Police said three men, in dark clothing, barged their way into the house and demanded property. The intruders left with a quantity of jewellery, leaving the girls shocked but uninjured.

Detectives are appealing for information and would like to hear from anyone who saw three men acting suspiciously outside the home.

The girls were left alone by the thieves, police said.

Detective Inspector Stuart Lyons, of Airedale and North Bradford CID, said: “Officers are conducting enquiries into this incident and we would like to hear from anybody who may have seen three men acting suspiciously outside the home shortly before 7.50pm or fleeing just after 8.10pm. This was a distressing incident for the girls inside the house and we are keen to trace these men as soon as possible.”

Councillor Elaine Byrom (Con, Clayton and Fairweather Green) said the street where the incident took place was not thought to be plagued by crime. She said: “I wish the police the best of luck with the investigation.

“I do not recognise that area being a crime problem, no more than any other area.”

Anyone who has information about the incident should contact DC Jim Singleton at Airedale and North Bradford CID on 101 or CrimeStoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.