Police have launched a manhunt after an elderly woman fought off a man armed with a six-inch knife who broke into her home.
The 88-year-old woman, who police have not named, was confronted by the man at her house in Worksop around 9.45pm yesterday.
Nottinghamshire Police said he demanded money from the woman but she refused, tried to fight him off, and suffered a cut hand during the struggle.
He searched her home before running off. It is not thought anything was stolen.
He is described as white and was wearing a grey hooded top, which was pulled over his face, and blue jeans.
The woman was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged, a force spokeswoman said.
Detective Sergeant Rick Jones, from Newark CID, said: "She has been left with a painful cut to her hand and is extremely shaken by what happened.
"This was a horrific attack on a vulnerable, elderly woman in her own home.
"Anyone who witnessed a man matching the suspect's description acting suspiciously before or after the attack should contact police immediately to ensure we prevent him from hurting anyone else."
Witnesses or anyone with information should contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.