A sex attacker assaulted a woman in her sixties after breaking into her home in Brighton.
The victim awoke this morning (Wednesday 4 May) to find a man in the bedroom of her flat in Varndean Road, Brighton, at about 6am.
He is believed to have broken in to the ground-floor flat by an insecure window.
He sexually assaulted her but the victim managed to run out of the property and raise the alarm.
Neighbours were alerted but the suspect ran off along Varndean Road before turning south in London Road near Preston Road.
Sussex Police said that the victim was shocked by her ordeal and was being helped by specially trained officers.
The suspect is described as black, about 5ft 11in tall, of slim build and aged in his late twenties or early thirties.
He had slight stubble on his face and was wearing a black flat cap, dark smart trousers, a shirt, a brown fabric jacket and dark shoes.
Detective Chief Inspector Jez Graves said: “The victim has suffered a traumatic experience but showed great presence of mind and courage.
“A team of detectives from the Major Crime Branch are dedicated to catching and arresting this man.
“We are appealing for any witnesses to come forward who may have seen this person in the Varndean Road and Preston Road area between 5am and 6.30am.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to make sure their home is secure at all times.”
Police promised extra patrols in the area.
Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
