THE Evening Press today launched a poster campaign to help police trace a robber who attacked a pensioner in her own home.

An e-fit of the suspect, created by police with the help of the elderly victim, will now be displayed in shops and businesses across York and North Yorkshire.

It is six days since the teenage attacker struck at the home of Mary Burton, 77, in Horsman Avenue, off Cemetery Road in York.

Mrs Burton, a former pub and post office worker, was left needing 21 stitches to head wounds after she was attacked on her doorstep.

Her assailant escaped with only £20 and she is now recovering at home.

Detective Constable Ian Murray, who is leading the investigation, welcomed the move.

He said: "The poster campaign is another way of getting that image out there and reaching as many people as possible.

"We have conducted house-to-house inquiries in the whole area and we want anyone who recognises this face to come forward and help us put a name to it."

Mr Murray said the suspect is a fair-haired teenager who wore glasses. He is about 5ft 4ins, of slim build with a thin face. He was clean shaven and spoke with a local accent.

Anyone with information should phone York Police immediately on 0845 60 60 24 7, or Crimestoppers, for free and in confidence, on 0800 555 111.

Earlier this week detectives arrested and questioned a local man, but he has since been released on police bail.

Meanwhile, vulnerable residents have spoken of their fears after the late night attack on Monday. Police believe the attacker may have knocked on several other doors too.

Updated: 09:40 Saturday, October 29, 2005