Axe-gang terror raid on couple

AXE-wielding robbers attacked a Royton couple in their own home before stealing money, a TV and a laptop.

Andrew Blood, of John Street, heard a knock at his front door at 9.30pm on Wednesday.

When he answered it, three masked men forced their way inside before brutally assaulting him at the bottom of the stairs.

As he lay bleeding, the trio burst into the bedroom and threatened his wife Deborah with the axe until she handed over £600 in cash.

The gang also stole a TV, laptop and mobile phone before taking John’s house keys and locking the couple inside.

Mr Blood rang the police straight away before going to hospital suffering from a fractured cheekbone and numerous cuts and bruises.

The 40-year-old said: “It was a terrifying experience and I have no idea why we were targeted. When they were attacking me at the bottom of the stairs, all I could think about was stopping them getting upstairs to where my wife was.

“As they were wearing gloves and masks, the police said it will be hard to identify them but forensics teams have searched the house for clues and one of them left a trainer mark on my face which may prove helpful.”

One of the intruders was white, 6ft tall, aged 30 and wore G Star jeans and a black jacket.

Another was 5ft 7in tall and wore dark clothing and a balaclava.

Det-Sgt Jason Byrne, said: “While neither victim was seriously injured these men have burst into their home and subjected them to a frightening ordeal in the place they should feel safest.

“We are determined to identify those responsible and bring them to justice and if anyone has any information that can help us please get in touch.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to remind people where possible to use spy holes or security chains, especially if you are not expecting a caller.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Oldham CID on 0161- 856 8951 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555 111.