A gang of robbers threatened to slit the throat of a man with his own bread knife during a terrifying raid at his home.

The eight-strong gang burst into his home near Kingston Hospital on Friday, November 23, at 11.45pm, and got away with cash, credit cards and hundreds of pounds worth of goods.

The victim, who does not wish to be named, was at his home with five friends, all in their 20s, when a knock came at the door.

He answered it and was greeted by eight men who forced their way in and threatened to slit his throat with his own bread knife.

PC Sian Thomas, from Kingston police robbery squad, said: It was quite an unusual crime and it was horrifying for the people involved. That is why we are very keen to speak to witnesses and catch the people who did this.

The home owner was then battered round the head with a frying pan but was not seriously injured.

Fortunately, the house guests were not hurt but were threatened with violence and were helpless to protect their friend.

The gang took cash, mobile phones, wallets, bank cards and other household items, including a Dreamcast games console, worth hundreds of pounds.

The members of the gang were all black males, aged between 17 and 20.

The style of the crime was not unlike steaming committed by gangs on trains and in shops, where a large group enter at once and use intimidation to rob and steal.

Police are asking for any witnesses who may have seen the gang hanging around before the incident or anyone seen fleeing the scene carrying a crash helmet and the games console.

A spokesman for the police said: The victim may have been followed to his address and the officer in charge is asking if anybody saw these suspects hanging around the area.

Anyone with information ring PC Sian Thomas on 020 8541 1212.

By.David Rankin