A MASKED intruder threatened a woman inside her own home after breaking in.

The victim had just returned home when she was threatened by a man wearing a face covering, who was already inside the property.

A handbag, along with its contents, was stolen in the incident, which happened at 6.30pm in Honeysuckle Field, Chesham, on Monday, March 3.

Thames Valley Police have increased patrols in the area this week and are treating the incident as an aggravated burglary.

Officers have appealed for information and are seeking witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact PC Stephen West from Amersham police station on 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.