A SENIOR detective has released more information on the hunt for three knife-carrying men in a stolen car who targeted a house in Branchton.

The suspects turned up at the property on Saturday night looking for a 'named individual' before smashing a window and speeding off.

The Tele can now reveal they made off in a black-coloured stolen Vauxhall Corsa — registration DW19 UOH — which later involved in a police pursuit.

Detective Inspector David Wagstaff, of Greenock CID, said: "There was a disturbance at 7.40pm at an address on Branchton Road whereby three males attended and knocked the front door looking for a named individual.

"When told that this person was not there they attacked the property, smashing a window.

"They were seen to be in possession of knives.

"The male householder went outside to confront the males, who sped off in this car."

DI Wagstaff added: "The vehicle was stolen earlier this year from the Dunbar area.

"It will now have collision damage to its rear."

Information should be passed to the police through the 101 number, or anonymously via Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.