POLICE have appealed for information after home raiders struck in Corringham in the early hours of today.

It is believed the thieves maybe a group of men who had been confronted earlier and chased away by residents.

The robbery took place at the home of Michelle Nairobi in Williamsons Way.

Police have issued the following statement: "We received a report today, Friday, 24 January, about a burglary in Williamsons Way.

"A woman reported that suspects had gained entry to her property between 1.30am and 11.30am before stealing handbags, a car, jackets and a key.

"Anyone with information is asked to call Grays police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/12868/20 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

The householder took to social media asking for local people to gone forward for information, saying: "We got burgled early hours of the morning around 3am while we were asleep.

"Two blokes in hoodies were seen around Burton Close trying to steal cars/break in houses and were chased down Gardiner Avenue. Among other things, they took 3 handbags and a red jacket......I'm guessing they were looking for our car keys."

The local community later rallied round with support, prompting Michelle to comment: "Just want to say a big thank you to everyone in my neighbourhood for checking their CCTV footages and for all their support. We are ok.

"I'm just very upset that a set of keys were taken which had great sentimental value to me as it had my dad's first car key on it. He died when I was young. It was the only possession I had left of his.

"Everything else that was stolen is not really important and can be replaced. "The key ring had a TILE locator on it so other people with a TILE may come into its location range."