A GANG armed with guns and knives stole thousands of pounds from a man when they burst into his home last night (Sunday).

The group of four broke into the house in Nursery Road, Loughton, at around 11pm.

A man, aged in his 40s, was sleeping inside but was woken up and assaulted by the gang.

The men, who were all wearing balaclavas, threatened their victim and forced him to open his safe, which he did.

They took a large quantity of cash and then stole his new grey Land Rover car from the driveway before making off.

After the authorities were alerted the man was taken by ambulance to Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone, where he was treated for minor injuries.

He was later released.

Police carried out a search of the area with dogs after they were alerted, but were unable to track the gang down.

A police spokeswoman said the man was "pretty shaken up" by the experience.

Officers will interview him again shortly to find out more information about what happened.

In the meantime an investigation is now under way featuring a review of CCTV footage and house to house enquiries by officers.

Police are also appealing for information from the public.

Det Inspector Kevin Shannon said: “I would appeal to anyone who has any information about these men to contact detectives as soon as possible.

"They subjected the man to totally unnecessary violence in the sanctuary of his own home.”

Three of the men are described as black and one was white. Two carried guns and two knives.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact detectives at Harlow Serious Crime Team on 0300 333 4444.

To give information anonymously via Crimestoppers call 0800 555 111.