An elderly couple have been attacked and robbed by a gang of three man who carried out a "despicable" raid on their home as they slept.

The 68-year-old woman and 74-year-old man were asleep in their house in Mennock, Dumfries and Galloway, at around 2am on Tuesday when three men broke in and held them against their will.

The attackers stole jewellery and phones from the house before fleeing in a vehicle towards the A76.

Neither victim was harmed in the attack but police said they were left very distressed by the incident. The elderly man was able to leave the house to alert police.

Detective inspector Dean Little said: "This was a very alarming experience for this couple and although they were not physically injured they are very much distressed over what has happened and it is important that we catch those responsible.

"This is a despicable crime, however is rare for our area, and I am appealing for anyone who may have any information, however small, which might help us catch those responsible to get in touch with us."

There is no description at this stage of the three suspects, other than that they were all male. Officers said local door-to-door inquiries are under way.

Mr Little added: "A large number of officers are currently working in the Sanquhar area on this inquiry and we want to reassure the community that we will remain in the area providing a visible presence at this time.

"Local residents are encouraged to approach the officers if they have any information which they feel might be of assistance.

"In particular I want to hear about any unusual or suspicious activity in or around the Mennock or Sanquhar area over Monday evening and into the early hours of Tuesday, and any sightings of vehicles moving about during this period, and in particular between 2am to 3am on the Tuesday morning would be helpful."