Emma Winnall suffered severe injuries

Police investigating a savage attack on a 94-year-old woman as she slept will speak to the pensioner about her ordeal for the first time.

Specially-trained officers will interview Emma Winnall on Saturday in hospital, where is recovering after emergency surgery.

She was assaulted in her own bed at her home in Pensby Close, Moseley, Birmingham, some time between 9pm on Monday and 9am on Tuesday, when she was found by her carer.

The attack, described by police as sickening and senseless, left the frail pensioner with multiple injuries including a fractured skull, a broken arm and wrist and a partially severed finger.

She has been sedated for much of her time in hospital, where she has had metal plates inserted into her arm.

A shocking photograph showing the extent of her injuries was released by West Midlands Police yesterday, at the request of Mrs Winnall's daughter, in a bid to persuade anyone with information to come forward.

Police said nothing appeared to have been stolen from the victim's home and the inside of the property was "largely undisturbed".

Detective Chief Inspector Sarb Johal said: "We believe an implement of some sort was used during the assault. Our forensics experts are scouring the property in the hope of shedding some light on exactly what happened.

"She suffered very nasty injuries and ones which, given her age, could well have been life-threatening.

"This is a truly sickening attack on a defenceless, frail lady as she slept in her own home. Mrs Winnall had nothing of note to steal.

"It was a senseless assault and I'd urge anyone with suspicions about who may be responsible to get in touch straight away.

"The attacker may well have mentioned something to a friend or relative. Or perhaps someone remembers a person acting oddly that evening or the following morning.

"I'm sure the answer to this vicious assault lies in our local communities, so we're appealing for help to try and trace the offender."

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.