Two men who broke into an elderly couple’s home in Basildon and then threatened them with weapons have been jailed for a total of 11 years and two months.

At Basildon Crown Court today, Joe Haide, 30, of Lincoln Road, Basildon, received seven years and two months for burglary and Victor Oladipo, 18, of Dewsgreen, Basildon, was sentenced to four years for burglary Haide was also given three year sentences, to run concurrently, for a burglary in Norfolk in 2016 and a burglary in Lewes last year.

Haide and Oladipo admitted the offences at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday, March 6.

At around 3.35pm on Friday, September 22, Haide and Oladipo forced entry into a property in Timberlog Lane and then threatened a man and woman inside, aged 97 and 87.

Both men, who were carrying metal pole like weapons had their faces covered, then searched their home before leaving with a bracelet and four necklaces.

Police reviewed nearby CCTV and found that Haide and Oladipo parked a vehicle on a neighbouring road and were seen acting suspiciously, going through into bushes to gain entry to the victim's property.

They were both arrested the following month in Basildon and were charged.

Investigating officer Dc Nicholas May, of Basildon CID, said: “An elderly couple were put through a horrific ordeal when Haide and Oladipo, armed with weapons, forced entry to their home.

“They then searched through the couple’s bedroom before leaving with jewellery.

“I want to thank both the victims for their courage and bravery throughout our investigation and through the court process, which has resulted in Haide and Oladipo serving lengthy sentences in prison.”