A WOMAN has tonight been charged with the attempted murder of a pensioner in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.

The 47-year-old, who is from Wensleydale, has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Northallerton magistrates in the morning.

She was arrested late on Monday in connection with the lunchtime attack earlier that day.

The pensioner, an 84-year-old woman also from Wensleydale, was struck over the head with a hammer in public toilets near the Posthorn Tea and Coffee House.

She was later released from hospital following treatment for head injuries.

Last night Detective Inspector Andrea Kell, who led the investigation, thanked people in the market town for their support and assistance in the early stages of the investigation.

Anyone with information can call police on 0845-60-60-247 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.