An elderly couple were tied up, blindfolded and gagged during a terrifying armed raid on their Hampshire home.

Today police stepped up their hunt for the armed gang that carried out the robbery in West End.

The masked raiders smashed through the retired couple's conservatory and then tied up, blindfolded, gagged and threatening the couple.

The gang of three or four men, all dressed in black and wearing ski masks, raided their home stealing a quantity of licensed firearms along with their ammunition.

They also fled with a substantial amount of high quality jewellery together with several gold necklace sets and nine Rolex watches.

Fortunately no one was seriously hurt although one of the victims suffered substantial facial bruising.

Police, who have only today released information about this burglary which happened on August 8, would like to hear from anyone who saw a group of men, or a silver car in the area of A27 Kanes Hill and the junction of Pinewood Park at around 9.15pm.

They would also urge anyone who may have noticed any suspicious behaviour of vehicles in the area to come forward, as they may have valuable information that could help with the investigation.

Detective Inspector Phil Scrase, said: “I am appealing to members of the public who may have any information in relation to this robbery to come forward and speak with the police.

“I am particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have been offered any high value jewellery or watches.

“I would like to reassure the public that there is a dedicated team of officers investigating the matter. The level of violence used was extremely terrifying for the victims involved and it is important that the offenders are identified as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information about the incident should call Southampton CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.