Four burglars broke into a house before being scared off by someone living there.

The men forced entry to the house in Wellington Road, Hastings at about 12.15pm on Wednesday, April 16.

They began stealing property before one of the occupants of the house returned home and saw the suspects coming down the stairs.

They demanded money but the victim ran through the property, shouted and the four men ran off. They stole a car key but the occupant was unhurt.

The first suspect is described as a black man, aged 21to 25, 6ft 2in, of medium to stocky build. He was wearing a hi-visibility jacket.

The second suspect is described as a black man, aged 21 to 25, 6ft 1in, of slim build. He was wearing a blue hooded jumper. The third and fourth suspects are described as black men, aged 21 to 25, both of slim build.

They are believed to have made off on foot from the scene in the direction of Hastings town centre. Any witness or anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting serial 0530 of 16/04. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.