A 68-year-old Stevenage pensioner has been left “very shaken” after being confronted in the early hours by a burglar in a black wrestling mask who broke into his home.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after the aggravated burglary, which happened in Jessop Road at about 2.30am yesterday.

A man wearing a distinctive black wrestling mask entered a home and confronted its occupant – allegedly demanding money and searching the property, before leaving with a small amount of change and some tobacco.

He is described as a slim black man, about 6ft tall, who wore a grey hoodie and light-coloured denim jeans. He spoke with what is described as a foreign accent.

Det Sgt Fay Tooley said: “Fortunately the victim was not harmed during this incident, but it was a very frightening experience and he is understandably very shaken.

“We are hoping that someone may have some information which could help this inquiry. Does anyone you know have a wrestling mask or have you seen anyone with a mask like this.”

Anyone with information should contact Det Sgt Fay Tooley on 101, quoting reference number 41/11491/18, or report online at herts.police.uk/report.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or go to crimestoppers-uk.org.