A couple today offered a £5,000 reward for the arrest of a gang who tied them up and robbed them in their home.

Racehorse owners Alfred and Kath Walls appealed to the public to help bring their attackers to justice at a Press conference this morning.

The terrifying raid happened on December 21 at the couple's home in Storrington Road, Thakeham.

Mr Walls, 66, and his wife, 68, had their hands and ankles bound in the attack, which has stunned their neighbours. One of three balaclava-clad men kicked Mr Walls in the head.

The gang, who wore dark clothing, got away with several hundred pounds.

Mr Walls said: "I was sitting down in a chair reading the Racing Post at about 7.15pm. We had a big log fire on and Kath was sitting on the sofa watching Emmerdale and doing her needlework.

"I had my feet on the cushion when suddenly three men came in. I thought it was my son having a joke. It was not long before I discovered it was for real.

"I was thrown to the ground and I had my arms and legs bound and they did the same to Kath. I did not have a chance to defend myself.

"I was then kicked in the eye. Kath was very upset and said, 'Don't hurt me'. They asked me where the money was and I told them I didn't have any. I handed them some money out of my pocket, then the men ran out of the house after smashing the telephone."

The couple managed to free themselves and dialled 999.

Mrs Walls said: "I could not believe someone could do this. I was really, really frightened. I just sat there all numb watching them take money from us. I still have flashbacks now and I suffer a lot of sleepless nights."

Detective Constable Steve Pincott said: "Mr Walls is incensed and his wife is very distressed about it all. It was all very disturbing and they are extremely anxious that these people are caught.

"Any information the public can give to the police would be appreciated by us and the family."