Masked burglar grabs phone from elderly woman as she makes 999 call in Stokesley

North Yorkshire Police is today appealing for information after the culprits broke into the home on North Road in the market town of Stokesley, stealing £320 in cash and bank cards at around 1.15am on Wednesday.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Catherine Skelton said: “This is a cruel and cowardly crime which has left the elderly homeowner in a very distressed state.

"If anyone has any information which could assist the investigation, I appeal to them to come forward and share it with us.”

In its appeal, the force said the victim was reading in bed, when two men wearing masks came in through the back door.

After making an "untidy search" of the house, the men moved on to the homeowner's bedroom.

"As she attempted to call 999, one of the men grabbed the phone from her hand," a force spokesperson said.

"The elderly victim managed to get out of the bedroom and make her escape from the front door of her home and raise the alarm with a neighbour.

"She was unhurt, but left very shaken and has required medical treatment since the incident."

Police are requesting that anyone who was in the area at the time, who saw anything suspicious, or has any information which could helpthe investigation to contact them.

Dial 101, select option two and ask to speak to Det Con Catherine Skelton from the Northallerton Serious Crime Team. Quote reference 12170209479.

Alternatively people can email [email protected]

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.