Police in Dudley are appealing for information after an 83-year-old woman was attacked and robbed in her home.

She had been out looking for her missing cat, when she met a man at Herald Court, off Priory Street who offered to help at around 6pm on Thursday 12th May.

After searching for the lost pet he went round to her home on Stone Street for a drink. He returned at about 10.30pm and forced his way into her home and stole bank cards and cash before pinning her down and making threats.

When he went into another room the pensioner managed to pull a pendant alarm, causing him to flee the property.

Officers believe he returned a short time later and banged on the door stating he was the police, but the woman did not answer and he walked off a short time later. A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said:

“This is a horrific attack on an elderly woman in her own home, by someone who posed as a friend and offered a helping hand.

“We are determined to find the man responsible and are eager to hear from anyone who thinks they may know the identity of the suspect.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Constable Gareth Homer at Brierley Hill police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.