A PENSIONER was subjected to a terrifying midnight attack at her home.

Detectives have launched an investigation after the 85-year-old woman said she was attacked by a balaclava-clad man in her home on Godiva Street Burnley.

Police said the woman had woken up to find a figure standing on the landing. He grabbed her and she passed out. When she came too the intruder had gone and her front door was open.

An ambulance was called and the woman was taken to hospital where she was treated for bruises. She has since been released and is recovering at home.

The incident happened shortly before 11.50pm on Thursday. Investigators have visited the house looking for evidence and detectives have conducted house-to-house inquiries in the area.

They say the are unsure of the motive for the attack and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

Police said the incident was the latest in a series in the street, which have included sightings of a man prowling in the area.

Det Sgt Ian Taylor said: "This was a security-conscious lady who has never had any problems before. Her son found her after she rang him in some distress. We have carried out a full examination of the scene and we have a team of detectives who have been on the street carrying out inquiries. There have been other incidents and if anyone has seen anything suspicious they should contact us.

"I would like to reassure people that this is an isolated and very rare type of incident but this does have the potential to be the first in a series and we are very keen to try and trace this man."