Pensioner assaulted in own home

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An elderly woman was sexually assaulted by an intruder who broke into her Tyneside home.

The 81-year-old was asleep in Gateshead when the burglar threatened her and stole jewellery and cash.

He then sexually assaulted her before fleeing the property, in Bensham, early on Friday.

Northumbria Police described the crime as "heinous" and appealed for anyone in the area who has been offered gold jewellery for sale to contact them.

The woman was not seriously hurt, but was left extremely shocked.

A force spokesman said such an act would "outrage all sections of the community" and confirmed that extra patrols would be on duty in the area.