A knifeman burst into a mid-Essex house and demanded that the occupant hand over possessions.

The intruder pushed his way in, wielding an eight-inch knife. The 21-year-old resident was told to put a PlayStation computer console and games into a bin bag the burglar was carrying.

He had knocked on the back door of the house in Bartram Avenue, Braintree, and told the resident he owed someone money.

The man was shaken but unhurt following the ordeal, which happened at about 8pm on Wednesday.

Police said it was "a serious crime" and are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to contact Det Con Alan Lewis, at Braintree CID, on 01376 551312, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Friday, March 22, 2002