Two pensioners have been left seriously burnt after boiling water was poured over their heads in a vicious knifepoint burglary.

Detectives are investigating the horrific ordeal which took place in London Road, Halstead.

Three men reportedly broke into the property and tied up the victims, aged in their 60s, and assaulted them whilst demanding money.

During the incident, which started shortly after 9pm on Tuesday, April 26, the couple were beaten and had scalding water poured over their heads and bodies.

They were also threatened with knives. The male victim suffered burns to 10% of his body, the female suffered 20%-30%.

At around 11pm the men reportedly fled with a quantity of cash. Twenty minutes later the male managed to untie himself and called police.

The victims are in hospital being treated for their burns.

Police have carried out house to house enquiries in the area and reviewed potential CCTV.

One of the suspects is described as black, around 5ft 10ins. The other two were both white. They all wore dark clothing.

"Both husband and wife have suffered some severe burns and possibly been left with life changing injuries" - Sgt Simon Harrold

Sergeant Simon Harrold from Kent Police's serious and organised crime unit said: "The victims of this crime have been subjected to a horrendous ordeal.

"Both husband and wife have suffered some severe burns and possibly been left with life changing injuries.

"They are both continuing to require treatment in specialist burns units and I can only imagine the trauma and shock they have suffered.

"Generally, Halstead is an area which is very safe to live in and we are treating this as an isolated incident.

"However, I would urge anyone who has any information which may help our enquiries to get in touch as soon as possible."

If you saw anyone, or any vehicles acting suspiciously between 8pm and 11.30pm, or have any information contact 01622 604100 quoting reference YY/8810/16.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.