MASKED burglars stole cash in a "shocking" burglary at the home of two elderly Monmouthshire men.

Three men broke into to a house in the Llanfair Kilgeddin area, near Abergavenny, at about 11.20pm on Saturday night.

The occupants, two elderly men who were sleeping at the time, were woken by the intruders and raised the alarm.

Police say the three thieves then made off in an unknown vehicle with a "substantial" amount of cash. The elderly residents are understood to be shaken by events but were not physically hurt.

Locals of the rural village have been appalled by the news.

Ward councillor Brian Hood said: "It is a very close-knit community where everyone knows each other.

"It's very rare that something like this happens. I'm sure the whole community will rally around and support the gentlemen as best they can."

Detective Inspector Paul Evans of Gwent police headquarters said: "This is a shocking incident involving two vulnerable members of the community.

"Thankfully they were not hurt during the attack on their home.

"I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Abergavenny area on Saturday night to contact us."

Anyone with information should call Gwent police on 01633 838111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.