Burglars claiming to be workmen break into house

They forced their way in through a ground floor window of the property on Headfield Road, Thornhill Lees at around 3.15pm.

They woke the 42-year-old occupant and ushered him in to the kitchen, stating they were there to check the water and gas.

One suspect kept the victim in the kitchen, whilst the others searched the property and removed a number of items. The suspects made off on foot up the street.

One is described as a white male aged in his 40s, around 5ft 7ins tall and of medium build. He had black short hair and a long face. He was wearing a black jacket woollen jacket and blue jeans.

A second suspect is described as a white male aged in his early 30s, around 5ft 7ins tall, of heavier build than suspect one with a long, small face, and a long nose. He was wearing a black baseball cap, black t-shirt and blue jeans.

Det Insp George Bardell of Kirklees CID said: “Clearly this has been a frightening experience for the occupant of the property. This incident has occurred during the early afternoon, when there will have been a number of people about, going out their business and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident to think back to if they saw or heard anything suspicious to come forward.

“It is possible that someone may have seen the suspects prior to, or as they left the property, and again, I would ask people to think back to if they saw anything, no matter how insignificant it may seem to speak to the police.

“We are conscious of community concerns following a series of offences towards the end of 2015 in the area, where a number of people were injured during robberies and aggravated burglary offences. A number of arrests were made in connection with those offences and our enquiries continue to bring those responsible to justice.

“No violence was used or threatened against the victim in this incident, and I do not believe this is linked to those offences.

“There continues to be a focused police presence in the area, including high visibility and covert patrols. I would also ask the local community to continue to be vigilant, and report suspicious activity to the police. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kirklees CID via 101, or alternatively via the independent crime fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.