FRIENDS of a man who was shot through the bedroom door in a bungled raid have said they are shocked and saddened at the attack.

Timothy Mardon suffered what have been described as life-changing injuries during the raid on his £2 million mansion in the quiet village of Sible Hedingham.

Mr Mardon is an insurance executive with ACE Tempest Re Bermuda, having previously worked in London at Terra Nova Insurance and Zurich Re.

He had bought the house in 2006 from Gary Mulgrew, a British banker known as one of the “NatWest Three”.

Mr Mardon spends most of the year living in Bermuda with wife, Sarah, who is chairman of the island-based charity the Eliza Doolittle Society.

Michael Veal, co-chair of the Eliza Doolittle Society, said: “The Eliza Dolittle Society is shocked and saddened by this event.

“Everyone here at TEDS wishes Tim a full and swift recovery and a safe return home to Bermuda.”

Friends of the couple also posted their best wishes on Facebook.

Debbie Whiting said: “We were so sorry to hear about Tim. It must have awful for him and a real shock for both of you.

“Please give him our best and we hope that he will be up and about soon.”

Pamela Doherty said: “I just read about Tim. Can't imagine how terrifying. My thoughts are with you guys. Get better soon.”

Braintree MP James Cleverly told residents that although the incident was shocking there was no need to be concerned.

He said: “My thoughts are with the victim of this terrible crime and I know the police are working hard to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“While events like this are shocking, it should be remembered that violent crime in our area is very rare.

“Anyone with information should contact Essex Police directly.”

The incident happened at about 4.40am on Saturday when two raiders broke into the house in Rectory Road.

Mr Mardon fled to the bedroom for safety but was shot through the door.

The two suspects are described as white, aged in their 20s, of slim build and were wearing dark clothing. One of them is described as bald.

Anyone with information should call Essex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.