A PENSIONER has been sexually assaulted in her home by a teenage intruder.

Police hunting the attacker, who was aged between 15 and 17, described the assault as "sickening".

The burglar forced his way into the 79-year-old's home in Hardwick, Stockton, at 3pm on Tuesday, attacking the woman in the hallway.

She was described last night as being in poor health.

Detective Constable Tariq Ali said: "This was a cowardly, sickening attack on a defenceless elderly woman in her own home. He needs to be stopped before he attacks again."

The attacker was white, with a skinny build, cropped mousy brown hair, and was wearing a blue or grey nylon quilted jacket.

Anyone with information can call Det Con Ali on (01642) 302226 or (01642) 302240