BATTERED pensioner Mary Burton said her faith in humanity had been restored, after being inundated with cards and flowers.

The 77-year-old, from Horsman Avenue, off Cemetery Road, in York, was left needing 21

stitches to head wounds after she was attacked on her doorstep by a teenager. He escaped with just £20.

We launched a poster campaign to help police trace the robber, who is still at large. An e-fit of the suspect, created by police with the help of the elderly

victim, will be displayed in shops and businesses across York and North Yorkshire.

Mrs Burton, a former pub and post office worker, said her stitches were taken out last week, but she still suffered painful headaches. The scars are still visible.

"I still don't look into the

mirror," she said. "The scar on my head is giving me painful headaches."

The pensioner has received many cards from well-wishers and three bunches of flowers.

She said she was very grateful to learn that York-based soul and Motown quartet, The Sensations, were to perform two shows this month to raise money for Mary and the Woodlands MS Respite Centre.

"It's very kind, but I feel a bit embarrassed because I'm not used to charity," she said.

"I'm a very independent lady. I've had all sorts of cards from people I don't know.

"It's fantastic - they've gone to so much trouble."

Mrs Burton said she still felt

a bit of apprehension when someone knocked on her door and always used the door chain.

"I wish my son lived here, because he is huge," she said.

"I'd still encourage anyone who knows who did this to get in touch with the police immediately."

Detective Constable Ian Murray, who is leading the investigation, said the suspect is a fair-haired teenager, who wore glasses. He is about 5ft 4in tall, 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 6060247, or Crimestoppers, for free and in confidence, on 0800 555111.

Updated: 10:00 Tuesday, November 08, 2005