A 26-YEAR-OLD woman is recovering following a terrifying attack in her own home.

The victim, who suffered bruising to her face and body, was assaulted during a raid at a Bournemouth flat yesterday morning.

She was taken to Poole hospital following the break-in at Norwich Avenue West at 10.15am.

The incident is the third aggravated burglary in the town in a fortnight.

Appealing for witnesses, DI Rich Dixey from Bournemouth CID said: “The victim was left terrified and shocked by this appalling attack.

“As a result of our enquiries we understand a man was seen in the area carrying a vacuum cleaner.

“I would encourage him, or anyone who may have seen him, to come forward and assist our investigation.”

An 82-year-old grandfather was forced to the ground by raiders who fled with cash, jewellery and a bus pass from his home in Charminster Road on March 10, between 8.30 am and 9 pm.

And a 49-year-old man was threatened by three offenders who broke into his Kinson home on March 22.

Following the latest incident, emergency services were scrambled to Norwich Avenue West.

Several hours after the assault three marked police cars and both uniform and plain-clothes officers remained at the scene.

Detectives were searching for clues and conducting house-to-house inquiries in the area.

Anyone with information can contact police in confidence on 01202 222222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Mobile phone tariffs may apply.

• A “substantial” reward is being offered for information concerning the Charminster Road raid. Despite being wrestled to the ground, the victim, who does not wish to be identified, escaped uninjured.

DC Mark Shields said he hoped the Crimestoppers’ cash reward would encourage members of the public to help track down the offenders who were wearing dark clothing.

They are both in their 20s and white.