Two burglars held a carving knife to a Barking woman’s throat last night after she told them there was no jewellery in her house.

The 34-year-old victim tried to telephone for help when she heard strangers coming up the stairs at her home in Sandringham Road.

Two men entered her bedroom and cut the phone line before demanding she give them jewellery.

When she told the suspects there was none they held a carving knife to her throat and threatened the safety of her family.

The victim handed over her jewellery box and the men left via the back doors and escaped down an alleyway at the back of Sandringham Road.

Both suspects were dressed in dark clothing with scarves covering their faces. They were black males, one had light skin tone, the other dark.

Detectives are appealing for information after the burglary which took place between 10.30pm and 10.45pm on Thursday, March 26.

Detective Sergeant Kate Stanndard of Barking and Dagenham CID said: “The effects of becoming a victim of burglary run far deeper than a loss of property.

“This was a vicious and cowardly attack on a woman alone in her own bedroom. I would appeal for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious on Sandringham Road or who thinks they know the identity of the suspects to come forward.

“At this early stage the burglary appears to be an isolated incident. However, Neighbourhood Policing Team officers are conducting patrols in the area and taking steps to ensure that the community is aware.”

There have been no arrests and enquiries are ongoing.