POLICE have stepped up their hunt for a thug who subjected an 84-year-old woman to what they described as a "terrifying ordeal".

The pensioner was alone at home in Hozier Street, Blackburn, when a man walked in through the front door, which had been left slightly open, and stole money from the living room.

He then forced her to walk with him around the house and threatened her with violence if she did not give him more cash.

A police spokesman said: "The woman was left deeply distressed by the attack. It was an absolutely terrifying ordeal."

Police and relatives have been keeping a close eye on her welfare following the incident, which took place at 10.50am on Sunday.

Detectives from Blackburn CID were interviewing her further yesterday .

The thug ran off down Hozier Street after the robbery, leaving the 84-year-old with severe cuts and bruises.

The man police are hunting is described as white, in his 20s, 6ft tall, slim, and with collar-length scruffy dark hair and stubble.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Blackburn CID on 01254 353567, or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 55511.