VIOLENT burglars kicked open the front door of a home, leaving a woman distraught.

The incident happened at a house on Tibbs Cross Lane, Bold Heath in Widnes at around 2.45pm on Thursday.

Inspector Andy Johnston from St Helens CID said: "This was understandably a distressing incident for the victim, who came face-to-face with offenders in her own home and during broad daylight hours.

“Thankfully they ran off when disturbed, but we are still treating this is an extremely serious matter.”

The men entered the house and fled empty-handed upon seeing one of the occupants inside the address.

The thugs are believed to have driven from the scene in a silver 4-door Jaguar XJ.

One of the men is described as white, in his late teens or early 20s, around 5ft 9in tall, with short dark hair and a slim build.

He wore a baseball cap and a grey, blue and white tracksuit.

"We are keen to speak with anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around 2.45pm last Thursday, including any sightings of a silver Jaguar,” added Inspector Johnston.

“Any detail, however small, may be vital in our investigation."

Anyone with further information is urged to contact St Helens CID on (0151) 7776802, or on 101.

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