Jailed: Despicable robber 'Scientist Smile' in gang which threatened Wolverhampton pensioners with machete in their home

When three robbers struck at the house in Trysull Road, Merry Hill, the couple were threatened with a machete before the thugs fled with £100, bank cards and a mobile phone.

It is thought the gang were disturbed when the homeowner - a 60-year-old woman - got out of bed to go to the bathroom at around 12.15am. It was then she discovered the intruders were in her house.

During her ordeal the woman was dragged around her house, as the intruders demanded gold and the location of a safe.

The woman's 68-year-old husband, who had been asleep in bed, was then woken by a man punching him to the face.

After the incident on July 6, police launched an investigation which led to the arrest of Handsworth man, Scientist Smile, in connection with the crime.

An investigation was immediately launched which led to the arrest of Handsworth man, Scientist Smile, in connection with the crime.

DC Nick Taylor from Wolverhampton CID, who investigated the raid, said: "This was a violent and terrifying attack on a couple in their own home.

"Both the occupants of the house were assaulted as their attackers clearly believed there were items of significant value inside the house but ultimately fled with very little."

Following the arrest, 20-year-old Smile admitted the robbery and was charged to appear before court. Smile, of Hamstead Road, Handsworth, later entered a guilty plea during an appearance at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

He returned to the court on Friday where he was sentenced to ten-and-a-half years in jail.

DC Taylor added: "This is a significant sentence for a man who showed no mercy in his determination to get what he wanted.

"Hopefully the sentence offers some comfort to his victims whilst sending a message that this kind of crime will not be tolerated, and comes with lengthy sentences."