A WOMAN was injured during a "heinous" robbery when a man broke into her home in the early hours of the morning.

The incident occurred between 2am and 3am on Thursday when an unknown man gained entry into a home in the Haywra Court area, off Haywra Street in Harrogate.

He assaulted a woman aged in her early 60s inside the home, causing bruising to her face and then made off with wallets and mobile phones.

The suspect is described as white, aged 20 to 30, about 5ft 6in tall and he was wearing a dark, possibly green, hooded top.

Detective Constable Paul Smith said: “This is a particularly heinous crime which subjected the victim to a terrifying experience. She is being supported by the police and measures have been put in place to enhance security at the property.

“Police patrols have also been stepped up in the area to provide reassurance to the local community while enquiries continue into what appears to be an isolated but very disturbing incident.”

DC Smith added: “I am appealing for people to come forward with any information about suspicious activity in the area of Haywra Court at the time of the incident or in recent days.

“In particular, we need to know about possible sightings of a man in a dark hooded top who matches the description given.

“Even the smallest piece of detail could be vitally important to the investigation.”

Call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for Paul Smith. Or email Paul.Smith@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.