A COUPLE were subjected to a terrifying burglary - as they sat watching evening television.

The pair had just settled down at 7.30pm when a raider smashed through an upstairs bathroom window.

He stole a haul of valuable jewellery - before driving off in the couple's car even smashing his way through the front gate as he made his getaway from the home in Albert Road West in Heaton.

The man had earlier searched one of the upstairs bedrooms, stealing a handbag and car keys, before going downstairs and stealing the car from the garage.

One of the couple chased after the man as he drove off but was unable to catch him.

The victims came forward after The Bolton News printed pictures of the stolen jewellery - recovered by police from a town centre jewellers.

Det Insp Charlotte Cadden said: “We received information promptly after an appeal which has enabled us to reunite the jewellery with its owners.

“They are understandably pleased and grateful to have the jewellery returned.

“But they were subjected to a very frightening ordeal and had other belongings, including their car, taken.

“A police investigation is ongoing and we would encourage anyone who may have been in the Albert Road West area on that night to get in touch.”

The raid happened on on September 29. The haul, including bracelets, coins and earrings, had been sold to the jewellers for £1,150.

The car escaped driving south down Albert Road West. The red Hyundai I30, has not yet been found.

Police seized the jewellery from the town centre business on September 30, but initially could not match the items to any theft or burglary under investigation in Bolton.

Two men, aged 41 and 47, have been arrested for burglary and handling stolen goods respectively. Both have been released on bail.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 8565761 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.