POLICE have released an e-fit of a man they are searching for in connection with a brutal robbery in Yarnbrook.

The 35-year-old victim is offering a substantial cash reward for information leading to the conviction of anyone involved in the robbery.

He was tied up and a pillowcase put over his head while the gang of raiders searched his home on March 1 before making off with a haul of £6,000 in pound coins.

DC Paul Clifford of Trowbridge police said: "This was an extremely violent and frightening incident.

"We are still looking for witnesses who may have seen something that evening."

Police have so far had a poor response to appeals for information about the incident and are hoping the e-fit might jog the memories of people who were nearby that evening.

The house where the incident took place, between 8pm and 8.20pm, is at Hawkeridge Road, near the Hungry Horse pub and the busy main road.

It is believed the raiders used a vehicle in the robbery, which may have been parked in a strange place or even causing an obstruction in the road.

There were three or four people involved in the attack and the victim, who was in the house on his own, was threatened with a Stanley knife and a screwdriver during his ordeal.

As well as the pound coins the raiders also took some very distinctive jewellery, including two gold horseshoe rings, two gold bracelets, a Seiko watch and a fake Rolex watch.

DC Clifford said: "This crime is going to be solvable because it is so unusual. People will remember if they have come across someone who has large amounts of coins such as this. The jewellery that was taken was also very distinctive.

"We are just asking people to be aware and to come forward if they have any information that may be useful."

Any information given to the police will be treated in strict confidence and callers do not have to give their names or telephone numbers.

The man police are looking for is described as black, aged between 25 and 30 and 5ft 6" to 5ft 9" tall. He didn't have a particular accent but used the word 'geezer' a lot in conversation.

DC Clifford said: "He is someone distinctive, particularly in his pattern of speech and the use of the word 'geezer'."

Anyone with any information can contact Trowbridge police station on (01225) 763101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.