A FATHER was attacked with pepper spray in his home while a gang of men threatened his son for money.

Police said three men entered a house in Roundmead Avenue, Loughton, through an insecure back door this morning (May 26) at about 9.15am.

The house was occupied at the time by a 52-year-old man and his adult children: a man and a woman.

One of the suspects approached the son in his bedroom and demanded money and gold before striking him on the right arm with a crowbar.

Another of the men approached the bedroom of the daughter and demanded she stay in there.

The third suspect detained the 52-year-old man in his bedroom and sprayed what police believe to be pepper spray in his face.

The gang left the premises with a three figure sum of cash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at Epping CID on 0300 333 4444.