MASKED thieves armed with hammers forced a terrified man to jump from a first-floor window.

The 36-year-old victim was left with two broken heels and a broken spine after the "despicable" raid, which happened at about 10.20pm on September 19.

He was watching television in his home in Greendale Drive, Chapelfield, Radcliffe, when three men smashed their way through a window with a hammer after trying to force open the patio door.

The men, who were all dressed in black and wearing balaclavas and face coverings, chased the terrified victim upstairs to his bedroom before threatening him and demanding money.

Fearing for his life and anticipating serious injury, the victim opened the bedroom window and jumped out as the attackers walked towards him.

He was so frightened that despite having two broken heels and a broken spine he managed to crawl to the pavement, where he collapsed.

Neighbours came to the victim’s aid after hearing the commotion and his cries for help.

The thieves fled the property after stealing £200 in cash.

Det Constable Martin Brown said: “Several neighbours were left very upset and frightened by what they had seen and heard that night.

“They describe hearing the victim's cries for help, and him literally hanging from his bedroom window ledge, prior to letting go and falling to the ground.

“The victim himself has been left very shaken, frightened and intimidated by events, as are his family.

"He does not know why he or his property were targeted in this way.

“He was lucky not to sustain even more serious injuries as a result of the fall.

“One can only imagine the fear a person would feel having their home invaded in such a violent and sudden manner.

“This was a despicable and cowardly act. It is imperative that those responsible are arrested and brought to justice as soon as possible."

Anyone with information can call police on 0161 8568223 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.