A 65-year-old woman has been raped and robbed in her own home in "one of the most sickening incidents" a North-East police force has ever had to deal with.

The woman was attacked in her home in The Grove area of Marton, Middlesbrough, on Thursday night.

Acting Detective Inspector Paul Richardson, of Cleveland Police, said: "Two men broke in and subjected this lady to a most degrading and humiliating ordeal.

"She was threatened, beaten and then brutally raped by the pair who then ransacked her home, stealing cash and credit cards."

A Cleveland Police spokesman added: "This is one of the most sickening incidents the force has ever had to deal with."

The pensioner managed to drag herself to the phone afterwards and call the police.

She was taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough to be treated for injuries sustained during the attack.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Call them on (01642) 303126.