AN elderly man was recovering in hospital last night after being attacked in his home by an axe-wielding robber.

The man demanded jewellery and, following a brief struggle, struck the pensioner with the axe after he burst into his home at about 5pm on Monday.

The 66-year-old, from the Foxrush Close area of Redcar, east Cleveland, was able to give police a description of his attacker after receiving treatment to serious, but not life- threatening injuries, at the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

Cleveland Police are looking for a man described as in his early to mid-30s, white, 6ft but stockily-built, and with short light-coloured hair. He was wearing a cream top and dark trousers.

Detective Sergeant Jon Green said: "This is clearly a very serious and disturbing incident, during which an elderly man has been attacked in his own home.

"I am sure there are people who are aware of the identity of assailant in this case, but we are keen to speak to anyone with information about the attack."

Anyone with information is asked to call Redcar CID on (01642) 302626.