A WOMAN was tied up and threatened with a handgun and a knife after robbers forced their way into her home.

The 36-year-old opened the door to two men claiming to be from an electricity company who asked if they could read the meter.

They were refused entry by the Stanbrook Road resident, who said she would read the meter for them before attempting to close the door.

The two men pushed the door aside and entered the house, followed by two more men.

It was then the woman was threatened with a knife and a handgun.

She was verbally abused and tied up while the four offenders searched the house.

They stole cash, jewellery and the woman's green Toyota Land Cruiser.

The vehicle was recovered about an hour later in Mayfield Road, Gravesend.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the December 7 incident and also for people who may have seen the car being dumped.

The robbers, who arrived at the property at 9.30am, are described as being of Asian appearance.

One was a young, short man wearing a black suit and a white shirt with long, black gelled hair.

He wore a silver chain with a badge, bearing the name Syed Raza, attached.

There was a tall, stocky man with a round face and closely-shaven hair wearing a yellow luminous striped top and grey gloves.

The third man was described as a young man wearing a grey hooded top and the fourth man was dressed in black wearing a black balaclava and gloves.

Investigating officer Detective Inspector Ian Dampier said: "This was a particularly violent robbery.

"We would urge anyone who may have seen something in the Stanbrook Road area to help with our inquiries."

Anyone with information should call 01474 565091 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.