KNIFE-WIELDING robbers attacked a dad in front of his wife and three young children at their family home.

Three thugs pushed their way past the dad after he opened his front door in Downhall Road, Rayleigh.

The knifemen threatened the man, 37, in front of his wife, 46, their nine and ten-year-old daughters and seven-year-old son. The dad was left minor injuries and the robbers fled with cash and some jewellery.

The dad was treated at the scene by an ambulance crew, but was not taken to hospital.

Det Sgt Simon Dovaston, of Benfleet police, said: “This was a very traumatic and violent incident for the whole family, with complete disregard shown for the young children who were present. I would ask anyone with information to come forward urgently.”

The thugs were black, about 6ft tall, aged between 20 and 30.

Anyone with information on the raid, which happened at just after 7pm on Tuesday, is urged to call Benfleet CID on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.