A VILLAGE community is rallying around a man who was the victim of burglars who ransacked his home.

Messages of support and sympathy have flooded in after the raid was reported at the home of James Mays of Trent, in East Tilbury.

The incident happened on Friday evening when raiders entered the home via the back door having come through a neighbour's back garden.

They caused a significant amount of damage, including using a large knife to slash his furniture.

Mr Mays' daughter, Clare Townsend Mays, has responded after many in the area took to social media offering sympathy and support.

She said: "Thank you everyone. My dad, who is shaken but OK, is very touched by all of your caring."

A police spokesperson said: "We are investigating following reports of a burglary in East Tilbury on Friday 6 December.

"It is believed that someone entered a house on Trent between 4.30pm and 8.20pm.

"A messy search of the property was conducted and a chair was damaged with a kitchen knife.

"Anyone with information is asked to call Grays CID quoting the crime reference number 42/192968/19."