BURGLARS assaulted a 74-year-old woman after breaking into her Stourport-on-Severn home.

North Worcestershire Police are investigating a possible link with other burglaries in the area on the same day. The incident, happened at around 6.30am on Sunday in Lower Lickhill Road.

The victim was sitting downstairs when she saw two men open her patio door and crawl along the floor.

When she asked what they were doing, they demanded money.

She then tried to use the phone and they hit her hand with a stick and threatened her.

One of the burglars then held an object to her face, which may have been a knife and another searched her house.

They stole her handbag containing cash and credit cards before discarding it.

Police said the pensioner needed hospital treatment for bruising to the hand.

Both men are described as tall and thin, wearing balaclavas. One wore a blue sweatshirt with writing on the front, the second wore a light coloured T-shirt and dark clothing.

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"There were two other burglaries in the same area that morning and we are looking at the possibility that they were linked," said Acting Det Sgt Mike Allen.

"The first was at an address off Lower Lickhill road at about 6am when a 64-year-old man disturbed two men who were in his garage. The two men had walked into the garage through an open door but once disturbed left empty handed."

Police believe the burglary may be related to other incidents, which occurred that morning in the Stourport area.

In another incident a 48-year-old woman had her Audi TT stolen, thieves appear to have taken the keys and her handbag from her home.

"The car was found just a few roads away in Bredon Way and we are appealing for anyone who may have seen this car being abandoned to contact us," added Acting Det Serg Allen.

Police urge anyone with information to contact 08457 444888 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.