Police appeal for witnesses following a violent burglary in Kings Road near Wimbledon Station

An attacker remains on the loose as police appeal for witnesses and information after three men with covered faces attacked residents in Kings Road, near Wimbledon Station.

The man and woman were at home next to the picturesque South Park Gardens at about 10pm last night when three men knocked on the door and were let in by the 55-year-old occupant.

The man was then violently assaulted by one attacker and a 50-year-old woman inside was threatened by the two other men who attempted to tape her down to a chair.

Two remaining residents upstairs were able to call 999 for help.

Police arrived within minutes and arrested two men in their late twenties at the scene.

Police said a third man, also believed to be in his late twenties, fled on foot towards Wimbledon town centre.

He has not been found but police enquiries continue.

Down the road from the crime scene: South Park Gardens

The injured man is currently receiving treatment for multiple facial injuries and bruising to the body and limbs at a south west London hospital.

Surgeons are operating on his eye and his condition is described as life-changing, a police spokeswoman said.

Some personal items stolen from the address have been recovered after they were discarded by the men.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area between 9pm and 11pm and might have seen what happened.

Crime scene: Kings Road in Wimbledon 

Police are also asking if anyone saw a silver Volkswagen two-door cabriolet style car which they believe was used by burglars.

The two men arrested are currently in custody while police make further enquiries.

There is no description available for the third suspect at this stage, the spokeswoman added.

Detective Inspector Dan O'Sullivan, of Merton Burglary Squad, said: "The level of violence used was extreme and has left a victim seriously injured and traumatised.

"The fast response to the 999 call ensured that two suspects were apprehended and the victim could receive immediate first aid.

"I must stress that this appears to be an isolated incident, and such cases are thankfully rare.

"However, this serious attack is now subject of a meticulous enquiry whilst we work to support individuals affected by the events and the local community.

"Officers are currently conducting high visibility patrols and speaking to residents to answer their concerns."

Anyone with information is urged to call the incident room on 020 8649 3159; Or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.