A MOTHER has been left too afraid to leave her home on her own, after she was the victim of a violent and unprovoked attack.

The 35-year-old woman had been walking along Newgate Street, in Bishop Auckland, when she was knocked to the ground with a blow to the back of her head and then kicked and punched.

The woman, who has not been named, is said to have been severely traumatised and badly bruised by the assault, which took place as she went to collect her 15-year-old daughter from the town's cricket club at 11pm on Friday. The apparently motiveless crime has puzzled police. The man made no attempt to steal her handbag and there were no words exchanged during the incident.

Acting Sergeant Martin Willis said: "It was absolutely, completely unprovoked.

"She walked past three young lads and then she felt a severe blow to the middle of her back that bought her to her knees."

The attacker wore indigo-blue Armani jeans and a dark blue jumper with a pattern of hoops running round the sleeves. The jumper was tucked into his jeans. He is believed to be about 20 years old, with short, light brown hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Acting Sergeant Martin Willis on (01388) 603566.