Brutal raiders threatened victims with a sledgehammer after bursting into their flat in Priory Road, Slough on Thursday.

The three struck between 9.10pm and 9.30pm, demanding money from a safe.

Cash, cigarettes and personal belongings were stolen during the incident. No one was injured.

Two of the men are described as being of large build while the third was slim. All were wearing dark clothing with face coverings.

The offenders left the scene in a silver Ford Focus car.

Detective Sergeant Lucy Deane, of Berkshire Force CID, said: “We are investigating this incident which was distressing for those who live in the property. As part of our enquiries, I’d like to speak to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity or a silver Ford Focus in the Priory Road area at around the time of the incident on Thursday.

“If you have any information about what happened, please come forward and speak to police.”

Any information which could assist the investigation should be reported by contacting the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting the reference ‘43180295984’ or online.

If you do not want to speak to police, please call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

*Two men, aged 18 and 36 and a woman, aged 34, all from Burnham, were arrested on Friday on suspicion of conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary and were released on bail until October 26.