A man who attacked a pensioner with dementia in her own home is believed to have fled the scene with a garden parasol, police have said.

The incident happened between 1.45am and 2.45am on Sunday at the 85-year-old woman's home in Hawthornhill Road, Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire.

She was taken by ambulance to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, where she is being treated for head and facial injuries.

Hospital staff describe her condition as serious but stable.

It is not yet known if anything was stolen in the incident, but it is believed the attacker fled with a parasol.

Detective inspector Ogilvie Ross said: "We believe he may have left the address with a large garden parasol, and I would urge anyone who saw someone in the area acting suspiciously, possibly carrying this item, or anyone who found or saw a parasol discarded, to please contact us.

"No matter how insignificant you think the information you hold is, get in touch.

"Additional police patrols remain in the area to provide reassurance and anyone with concerns should speak to officers."

The attacker was wearing dark clothing and was last seen heading in the direction of Castlehill Road.