A mother-of-four and her friend were attacked and taken hostage during a terrifying raid on a Hampstead Garden Suburb home.

Ham & High: Police have released this image of one of the earrings which were stolen.Police have released this image of one of the earrings which were stolen. (Image: Archant)

Deborah Nathan, 49, and a female friend, 39, were beaten and had their mouths taped shut by burglars who forced their way into Mrs Nathan’s home, off Meadway, close to Hampstead Golf Course.

Mrs Nathan answered the door after hearing a knock at about 9.30am on June 18.

Two men pushed her to the floor, kicking her in the stomach as they ran inside. When Mrs Nathan’s friend came down the stairs, she had her hair pulled and her head banged against the banister.

Both victims then had masking tape put around their mouths. One man stayed with the women downstairs while the second ransacked the house.

They escaped with cash and jewellery and got into a waiting black Peugeot car before making off along Middleway.

Both women were taken to hospital. Mrs Nathan suffered a cracked rib.

The suspects are described as black men, about 6ft tall, wearing long dark jackets with a reflective pattern.

No arrests have been made and police enquiries continue.

Det Con Matt Beavis, of Barnet CID, said: “This was a vicious attack on two women and I would appeal for anyone who may have seen these two males in the area at the time of the incident to contact us immediately.”

Police have also released an image of earrings which were taken during the burglary.

If you have any information about the incident, or the whereabouts of the earrings, please call Barnet CID on 101, or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.