Two men are being hunted by police after they were caught trying to break into a home.

The pair forced open the front door of the house in Parham Road, Crawley, between 11am and 11.30am on July 22 but were then seen by the owners, who were at home.

The men, who were both white but tanned and in their 20s, fled from the home and ran away towards Ifield shopping parade. One of them had a pronounced limp and seemed to be struggling to keep up with the other.

The limping man was 5' 6" to 5' 8", had short dark hair and was of medium build. He was wearing a striped or blue and white chequered shirt and green latex gloves.

The second man was wearing a dark blue hooded top and jeans.

Sussex Police launched Operation Magpie to tackle burglary across the county.

Detective Constable Emma Dumbrell said: "This was a very upsetting experience for the victims, who came face to face with men in their home.

"We urgently need to speak to anyone who saw the men before or after the burglary, or who recognises the face in the efit.

"If you know anything at all, please contact us."

Anyone with any information should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 540 of 22/07, call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.