Cash reward offered after home assault

A cash reward has been offered to catch three armed robbers wearing clown masks who seriously assaulted a homeowner.

The incident which involved three men wearing white CSI-style suits and clown masks entered the victim’s home before they were confronted by the sole male occupant.

His leg was snapped with a crowbar during a struggle and the suspects demanded keys to a safe.

It happened at South View, Burnhope at about 8pm on November 11.

The robbers fled the scene with sentimental gold jewellery.

Detective Constable Michael Orridge of Chester le Street CID, said:

“Following extensive enquiries, we are now appealing to the public to help us catch these culprits. This was a nasty assault which left the victim with a broken leg and needing hospital treatment.

“A £5,000 cash reward is being offered for information leading to a conviction.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Constabulary on 101 quoting reference 434 of November 11.