A MAN has been arrested in connection with a burglary which left an 87-year-old woman in critical condition in hospital.

The 33-year-old man was arrested in York yesterday afternoon and remains in custody for questioning about the offence, which was committed in Victoria Court on New Year’s Day.

The pensioner suffered a head injury in the incident and was taken to York Hospital. She was discharged, but later readmitted and is currently in a critical condition.

Police previously said the woman was confronted by an intruder in her home in Victoria Court, off Leeman Road, and suffered a head injury in the burglary. Her son, who had gone out to buy a newspaper, arrived back at her home and tackled the intruder, who made off on an old-fashioned bicycle.

Officers are still trying to trace the bicycle, described as a grey or silver, old-style gents bike, with straight handle bars, and urged the public to look out for it.

Detective Superintendent Heather Pearson, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Although we have made an arrest, our enquiries remain ongoing and I am urging the public to continue to help us progress this investigation.

“In particular I am appealing for any witnesses who have not yet come forward to do so. In addition I would ask that anyone who has any information that would assist with the investigation to do the right thing and contact the police.”

Last week, police released an E-fit image of the suspect, and said they were also keen to speak to two women seen walking in the area at the time.

They were both described as being white and aged around 40. One had black, wavy shoulder-length hair and was wearing a light blue anorak. The other woman was wearing a red anorak.

Anyone with information which could assist the investigation, or who was in the area at the time, should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, email YorkCID@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.