A safe containing historic bank notes, coins and stamps was stolen and a woman was assaulted during an aggravated burglary.

Police are appealing for information after two people broke into a home in Elm Avenue, Watford, on January 7 between 7pm and 7.50pm.

After attacking the woman and taking the five foot high metal safe, they fled the scene in what is believed to have been a dark-coloured Vauxhall Zafira.

They reportedly travelled into Sherwoods Road, past The Load of Hay pub and towards Bushey Arches.

The suspects are described as white men wearing dark clothing and face masks.

Detective Constable Matt Cox from the Watford Local Crime Unit said: “Thankfully the woman was not seriously injured during the incident but has understandably been left extremely shaken by her ordeal.

“I am appealing for anyone with information about the incident to please come forward. I would particularly like to hear from anyone who was driving in the area around the time and may have captured dash cam footage.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have come across historic bank notes, coins and stamps for sale in suspicious circumstances.”

Anyone with any information should report it at www.herts.police.uk/Report or contact the Watford Local Crime Unit on 101, quoting crime reference C1/18/148.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.