AN elderly woman is recovering after being assaulted and robbed at her own front door.

The 81-year-old woman had just walked back to her home on Fifth Avenue, York, after a trip to the local shops when the male suspect knocked on her front door at about 12.10pm today, November 9.

When she answered the door the man pushed her to the floor and stole a number of items from the house before running off.

The victim was left very shock4d by the incident but was otherwise unharmed.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward or anyone who can help trace the suspect or recalls seeing the elderly woman prior to the incident.

The suspect was about 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in tall and was wearing a dark top and a white scarf which was pulled over his face. His victim was wearing a distinctive pink long-sleeved jumper and a dark skirt.

Detectives are carrying out house-to-house inquiries in the area as well as analysing CCTV footage.

Detective Sergeant Mark Jackson said: "Although this was an isolated and unusual incident for a safe place like York, it was nevertheless very frightening for the elderly woman involved."

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact police on 0845 6060 247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.