Three thugs violently attacked an elderly couple in their home before raiding their safe.

Detectives are investigating an aggravated burglary on Rickmansworth Road, Watford, between 9pm and 9.30pm on Tuesday.

Three intruders forced their way into the home of a husband and wife in their 80s, before beating the man over the head with a weapon and throwing a liquid all over him, which his daughter believes was bleach.

The man’s wife was also attacked, but police said she was unharmed.

The elderly man was taken to hospital with a cut to his head.

The violent trio then searched the house and stole a safe containing jewellery, a number of mobile phones and a handbag and purse before escaping in a small grey car.

Detective Sergeant Chris Parperi, from the Watford Local Crime Unit, said: “This burglary has left the victim understandably shaken but thankfully he was not seriously hurt. I want to reassure him, his family and the wider community that we are doing all that we can to trace those responsible.

“We are currently following a number of enquiries but would be very keen to speak to anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or saw a grey vehicle travelling at high speed.

“If you can help, please make contact with us by either using online web chat, reporting information online at www.herts.police.uk/Report or calling the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 41/16540/19.”