AN ELDERLY woman was left shaken after finding a burglar in her home shortly after hearing the sound of breaking glass.

The woman, aged in her late eighties, disturbed the man in her living room at about 8pm on Saturday (February 15).

He immediately fled her home in Middleton Tyas, near Scotch Corner, and ran into a field behind the property.

Police say the resident, who lives with family but was alone at the time, was unharmed but left very shaken by the ordeal. She is being supported by police officers and her family while the investigation continues.

Extensive searches, including the use of police dogs, were carried out throughout Saturday evening and during the early hours of Sunday to find the man.

Enquiries remain ongoing and detectives are urging any witnesses to come forward as soon as possible. They would also like to hear from anyone who recalls seeing any suspicious people or vehicles in the Middleton Tyas area on Saturday or over recent days.

The suspect is described as over 6ft tall, slim build and dressed in dark clothing with his face covered by a hooded top.

Detective Andy Palmer, of Northallerton CID, said: “This was a very disturbing and upsetting experience for the elderly victim and her family and we are doing everything we can to arrest the suspect.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, could be very important to the investigation. Please do the right thing and contact the police without delay.”

Anyone who can help should call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for Northallerton CID or Andy Palmer. Or email; andrew.palmer@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number 12140025332.