An elderly woman was left with cuts and bruises after burglars broke into her house yesterday.

Police are appealing for witnesses after three men entered the 70-year-old’s home in Courtland Drive, Chigwell, at about 6pm after smashing a rear door.

The trio was disturbed by a neighbour and left the house after knocking the pensioner over.

The suspects then drove off in a metallic blue saloon style car.

Police do not know what was stolen.

Anyone who saw a car matching the description or who has any information about the incident is being asked to contact Det Sgt Eileen Mullins at Loughton CID on 101.

Information can also be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org