TWO women in their 50s, one a charity collector, were sprayed in their faces with an unknown substance following a burglary. The incident happened at 6.50pm in Wilbury Road, Letchworth GC, on Monday last week when a woman, returned home to find her front doo

TWO women in their 50s, one a charity collector, were sprayed in their faces with an unknown substance following a burglary.

The incident happened at 6.50pm in Wilbury Road, Letchworth GC, on Monday last week when a woman, returned home to find her front door open and a charity collector in the driveway of her property.

A man, say police, came out of the house, and sprayed both women in the face.

A young man passing the house saw the man and three others running from the property in the direction of Cowslip Hill.

Both woman received treatment for minor injuries to their eyes and it was later discovered a number of items of jewellery had been stolen.

Dc Maria Ling who is investigating the incident, said: "This was a particularly unnecessary and vicious attack.

"I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anyone acting suspiciously to contact police as soon as possible.

"A black Vauxhall Vectra with tinted window was seen in the area before the incident which may or not be connected."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police via the non-emergency number on 0845 3300222.

* A 17-year-old man from Letchworth GC has been arrested in connected with the incident and has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.