A BURGLAR knocked on an 84-year-old widow's door and told her she was about to be burgled as a man was breaking in her house.

The woman, who lives alone, slammed the door on the 16-year-old, but when she entered her lounge found the same youth standing with another man.

The pair, who had entered through a window, then demanded money before systemically ransacking the terrified woman's sheltered accommodation house in Guisborough.

Detective Constable Peter Clifford paid tribute to the victim's bravery, east Cleveland.

He said: "This is a sick and appalling offence committed against a vulnerable person. The lady is one of the bravest I have encountered in over 20 years.

"She did not panic and although terrified throughout, she kept calm and probably saved herself from a more serious offence. I believe the offenders live locally and we appeal to members of public to identify them."

Both the burglars were aged about 16, were about 5ft 7in, of medium build with short dark hair. One was wearing a grey jacket and blue jeans and other a black leather jacket. Both had local accents.

Police are appealing for any information and are interested in talking to anyone who was in the Woodhouse Road and Chapelbeck area of Guisborough between 8.45pm and 9.30pm on Wednesday.

Det Con Clifford can be contacted on (01642) 302020 or calls can be taken anonymously on Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.