Police hunting the attacker of an 81-year-old pensioner who was left in a pool of blood have released an artist's impression of a person they need to trace.

Mary Richardson, who has terminal liver cancer and Alzheimer's Disease, was punched and kicked as she tried to protect herself in her home in Shiremoor, North Tyneside. She was left with a fractured skull, broken nose and collarbone, and severe bruising in the attack which happened sometime between 4.30pm on Thursday and 10am the following morning.

Police said last night they were pleased to report her condition had improved dramatically, although she is still in hospital. Detectives have had a good response from members of the public following appeals, but still need to trace a man seen near Mrs Richardson's home in the early hours of Friday morning.

He was seen walking over a grassed area at the back of her house in Stanton Road at 4am on Friday and then climbing over a 6ft fence nearby. He was last seen walking towards Felton Close.

Detective Superintendent Steve Wade, who is leading the inquiry, said: "We can consider this to be a significant sighting and urgently need to trace this person.

"If this is you come forward so you can be eliminated from our inquiry.

"If people recognise this ma or have any information about who he might be I would urge them to get in touch. It is vital that we trace him."

The man has been described as around 6ft, thick set and slightly overweight. He was wearing a black woollen hat rolled up at the side, a waist-length navy blue anorak, dark trousers and white trainers.

Anyone with information has been asked visit the mobile incident room or contact 0191-214 6555 ext 63804 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.