The robber, and his younger accomplice, theatened the woman and stole jewellery.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the robbery at a property in Thurnby Lane, Stoughton, last Monday (Aug 18).

The information has only been released by police this morning (Thursday, Aug 28).

The incident occurred at about 5am when an elderly victim - whose age has not been released - was awoken by a man and youth stood in her bedroom while she was still in bed.

The man threatened her with what is believed to be a knife and demanded money.

Police said a 'large amount' of jewellery worth a 'substantial amount' of money was stolen as well as a small sum of money and some power tools, which had been removed from an outside building.

One of the items of jewellery have sentimental value including a gold brooch in the shape of a rose, encrusted with diamonds, opals and amethyst.

Both suspects were wearing headgear and had scarves covering their faces.

The man is described as being between 45 to 50 years old, between 5ft 10 ins and 6ft tall and of sturdy build. He was wearing dark clothing and possibly dark gloves.

The youth is described as aged between 13-14, about 4ft 10ins tall and wearing dark clothing.

DC Andy Cree, who is investigating the incident, said: "We would like to hear from anybody who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area at the time.

"Several items of expensive jewellery were stolen, much of which has great sentimental value. If any local jewellers have been offered a substantial amount of jewellery recently, recognise the description of the gold brooch or if anybody has any information about where it might be, I would urge them to get in contact with the police."

"A witness has recently seen a man hanging around fields near the location. He is described as white with blonde hair and wearing a denim jacket. Perhaps he has been involved in the incident? If anybody has any idea who this man might be then they should also contact police."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 243 Cree on 0116 2222222, follow the instructions to leave a message for a police officer and when prompted key in the officer's identification number 0243. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous on 0800 555111.