A man tried to burgle someone's house while they were asleep. 

A 39-year-old man was asleep at his home in High Street, Great Yeldham, at about 3.30pm on September 20 when he heard a noise.

He went to investigate and saw a man forcing open the back door.

He challenged him and the man claimed there were children in the garden trying to get into the victim’s garage before leaving.

The incident is being treated as attempted burglary.

The man was described as white, tanned, and aged about 45.

He was 5ft 10ins tall and described as having a pointed face, high cheek bones and short brown hair that was shaved shorter at the sides and curly on top.

He spoke with an Irish accent and wore a sleeveless high visibility jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to call DC Robin Coltman in Braintree CID on 101 quoting reference 42/137154/18.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.