A DETECTIVE has voiced his disgust after a woman in her nineties was assaulted in her own home and burgled.

The break-in happened when three young men forced their way into the victim's home in Alderney Gardens, Wickford, through a first-floor window at about 9pm on Bank Holiday Saturday, August 24.

They were confronted by the elderly victim, but they pushed her to the floor and ran off with a three-figure sum of cash and her house keys, leaving the woman with injuries that needed hospital treatment.

Investigating officer, Det Con Tony Thomas, said: “This home invasion happened on the bank holiday Saturday when south Essex was hit by severe flooding so we’re hoping this jogs people’s minds given that this appeal is being issued three weeks after the assault.

“During this time, we have been in regular contact with the woman who was understandably fearful of her own safety and that of her property which is why we have had to wait this long.

“However, she has now changed her mind and the property is now secure and we are routinely patrolling the street to ensure we deter a repeat break-in, as well attempt to catch the criminals.

“The whole street has been left shocked and appalled at the lengths these men have gone to, hitting a defenceless old woman in her own home. The men should be ashamed of themselves as should those who know them or live with them.

“We would urge the three to hand themselves in and for people to cast their minds back to that Saturday night. We have one witness who recalls seeing a black car speed off, initially without any headlights so we’re keen to trace this car and its occupants to either eliminate them from our enquiries or class them as suspects.”

The attackers are all described as being young men and were wearing hoodies.

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at Basildon police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.