Burglars forced their way into a house in Rayleigh while an elderly resident was asleep inside.
Police are appealing for information about the burglary in Falcon Close, where intruders forced open a kitchen window and removed it from its hinges.
The break-in took place between 11.45pm on Thursday and 8.15am on Friday.
Although the intruders gained entry to the house, it does not appear anything was stolen.
The elderly woman was not woken during the break-in.
Anyone with information is asked to call DC Ben Broderick at Southend CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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