An elderly widow was stabbed in the face and neck by a thief who stole her handbag.

The man knocked on the 80-year-old victim's door at 8pm on Monday and forced his way into her home in Terrace Road, St Leonards.

He attacked the woman before running off towards Warrior Square with her black plastic handbag, containing a small amount of cash and treasured photographs of her late husband.

She called police and an ambulance took her to Conquest Hospital for treatment for cuts on her face. She was released later the same evening.

Detective Inspector Del Cuff, of Hastings police, said: "This is a horrific crime on a vulnerable elderly woman. If anyone knows the offender, they should contact Hastings police. This sort of crime is very rare and we are taking the investigation very seriously."

Friends and family were rallying around the victim.

Her attacker is described as white, tall, between 25 and 40-years-old with stubble. He had short, dark hair and wore casual clothing, including a white T-shirt.

Anyone with information should call Detective Constable Amanda Snashall on 01424 456105 or contact Crimestoppers, free and in confidence, on 0800 555111.