Detectives at Dumbarton are appealing for witnesses after the man and wife were confronted in their home by two men, once appeared to have a gun.

The 56-year-old woman answered a knock on her door at Buchanan Avenue, Haldane, at around 11pm.

Police Scotland say she was confronted by a man who was brandishing what appeared to be a firearm.

He forced entry to her home which resulted in her falling over.

Her 63-year-old husband who had been upstairs, came down and was confronted by this man and his accomplice who had entered their home.

A struggle ensued and the 63-year-old man also fell, however both suspects then fled from the house empty handed. They made off in a white coloured car.

The couple were physically uninjured but very distressed by their ordeal.

At this time there is no description available of the suspects other than white males.

Detective Chief Inspector Calum Young is appealing for witnesses. He said: “This was obviously a very traumatic experience for this couple. At this time we have yet to establish a motive but believe that, for whatever reason, the couple were the intended targets.

“Door to door enquiries are continuing in the area and everything is being done to trace those responsible.

“On Wednesday, October 1 a white coloured Mercedes motor car was found burnt out near Woodend Lodge, Gartocharn.

!This car had been stolen from Stepps on July 19. Enquiries are ongoing to clarify whether this could have been the white car used in the attempted robbery.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the area of Buchanan Avenue on the evening of Tuesday, September 30 and saw a white car they didn’t recognise in the area or any suspicious behaviour to get in touch.

“I would also ask anyone who saw the Mercedes in Gartocharn on Wednesday 1 October or any activity at or near Woodend Lodge to come forward.” Any person with information which could assist in this investigation is asked to telephone the CID at Dumbarton on the non emergency telephone number 101.

Alternatively telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.