A vulnerable 85-year-old woman with dementia has been left badly injured after she was attacked in her own home by a man who broke in during the night.

The incident took place on Hawthornhill Road, Dumbarton at around 2am on Sunday morning when a man entered the elderly woman's home.

The victim sustained injuries to her head and face after being attacked by the intruder.

She was taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital for treatment.

The suspect is described as male, around 6ft, of slim build and was wearing dark clothing. He made off on foot towards Castlehill Road.

It it is not known yet if anything has been stolen from the house.

Detective Constable Iain Allison, Clydebank Police Office, said: "To break-in and cause injuries to one of the most vulnerable members of our community in the middle of the night is an absolutely despicable act. The woman's physical injuries will heal but this terrifying experience will no doubt stay with her.

"We will be doing everything in our power to find the person responsible, we are currently looking for any CCTV in the area and are making door to door enquiries.

"We would ask anyone who may have any information to get in touch with us. Did you hear anything through the night? Were you out last night and only returning home around these hours? Did you seen anyone?

"Any small piece of information could lead us to find the man responsible.

"Officers will be carrying out extra patrols in the area and if you have any concerns you are encouraged to speak to them or contact us via 101."