A NORTH-EAST community is in shock following a terrifying sex attack on a 78-year-old women in her own home.

The traumatised victim was last night being comforted by family as police mounted a major investigation in Seaham, County Durham.

Police, who described the attack as "appalling and incomprehensible" believe the frail woman may have been stalked by her attacker before he broke into her home.

Detective Inspector Dave Wolfe, who is leading the hunt, said the woman woke at 2am on Saturday to find an intruder standing over her bed.

He pulled back the covers and subjected her to an indecent assault lasting up to half an hour.

"This is an appalling and incomprehensible attack on a defenceless, elderly lady," he said.

"She is getting comfort and support from her immediate family.

"I would appeal to anyone who might have seen this man in the area to contact us."

DI Wolfe said detectives had yet to determine exactly how the intruder gained entry.

He added: "We have established there may have been someone prowling around the area during the night.

"People reported wheelie bins being knocked over and disturbance at 1am."

A close friend of the victim, said last night: "What this man did is wicked. It has been very upsetting.

"She is well liked and well respected."

The assault also brought back unwelcome memories for Denise Timney.

Her 88-year-old mother, Frances Doran, was victim of a similar shocking sex attack in nearby Grangetown, Sunderland, more than a year ago.

Last night she said: "When I heard the news I went cold.

"I understand what this family must be going through right now and my sympathy goes out to them.

"All I can say to the family is that time is a great healer. If they are strong they will come through it."

Michael Rochester, 26, of Hardgate Road, Hill View, Sunderland, appeared before Newcastle Crown Court last year.

He admitted attempted rape and other offences and was jailed for nine years.

He was caught days after Mrs Doran waived her right to anonymity in the hope it would lead to his arrest.

Meanwhile, DI Wolfe said of the weekend's attack: "This is a one-off incident and the first of its kind we have had in this area.

"But we would advise people to take the usual security precautions, such as keeping their doors locked and windows closed."

The attacker was dressed in black, aged between 20-25, and had a black bobble cap pulled down over his eyebrows.

He smelled of alcohol but was not described by the victim as being drunk. Anyone with information should call police on (0191) 386 4929.