POLICE have issued an urgent appeal after an elderly woman was robbed in her own home.

The woman, in her 80s, of Askham Lane, Acomb, was left badly shaken, but was not admitted to hospital after the incident, which was reported at about 4.30pm yesterday, police said.

They have called for witnesses to come forward to find the suspect, who knocked at the woman’s door before he robbed her.

The suspect was white and in his 40s. He was wearing a navy coat and a distinctive dark woollen hat with ear flaps and bobbles hanging down on either side.

Detective Sergeant Mandy Grundy, of York CID, said: “The victim has been left extremely traumatised by this incident and I am urging the public to help us locate the man responsible as soon as possible. Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time or knows who is responsible they are urged to contact the police or Crimestoppers immediately.”

Anyone who can help the police should phone 0845 6060247, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.