Machete burglars in raids on Shropshire homes

Raiders armed with a machete and baseball bat carried out terrifying assaults on two Shropshire families in their own homes today during violent burglaries in broad daylight.

One attack left a man and woman needing hospital treatment and in the other a woman was tied up while the three men ransacked her house after forcing their way in.

They made a getaway in a black Land Rover Discovery, taken from one of the homes and abandoned nearby a short time later.

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Both raids happened at homes in Wollerton, near Market Drayton, at about 9am today.

Detectives said fortunately none of the victims was seriously injured. However a man and woman were taken to hospital with minor injuries and cuts.

Detective Inspector Pete Brophy said: "This is a serious, violent incident. I am appealing for information.

"In particular, we want to hear from anyone who spotted suspicious activity in or around Wollerton last night or before 9am today involving three or more men."

He said both homes had been ransacked and a number of items stolen, including laptops and phones. Mr Brophy added: "The Discovery was found at around 9.30am outside Wollerton Farm by the 30mph signs.

"It appears the culprits had another vehicle waiting which might have been parked there overnight, or earlier today. I am appealing for witnesses who may have seen the Discovery being abandoned, or who spotted another vehicle parked up."

Anyone who can help should contact police on 101.