Three men wearing balaclavas and carrying a crowbar broke into a property and assaulted a man in his 50s.

Police are appealing for information after the aggravated burglary which happened in Wigan Road, Euxton.

Police were called to the address shortly after 8am yesterday (Wednesday, September 21) after receiving reports that three men wearing balaclavas and armed with a crowbar had broken into a property and assaulted a man in his 50s.

The offenders stole a quantity of cash and made off in vehicles. It is believed they travelled along Euxton Lane towards the M61 motorway.

An investigation is underway and enquiries are ongoing to identify the offenders and police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Det Sgt Justin Macmurray said: “This must have been a terrifying ordeal for the victim and he was lucky not to be more seriously hurt as these offenders were armed and clearly prepared to use violence.

“This happened on a main road at what was a busy time of day with people travelling to school or work and I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious or who has any dashcam or mobile phone footage which might assist to come forward.

“I would also appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area in the days or weeks before yesterday to get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call us on 101 quoting log 0213 of September 21.

Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.