The incident happened between 12.15pm and 12.30pm on Wednesday (March 11 2009) at an address in The Crescent, Freckleton, near Blackpool.

A man approached the address from the direction of Naze Lane East and knocked on the front door. When the 40-year-old victim opened the door, he pushed his way into the address and subjected her to a violent attack in which she suffered facial injuries.

The offender demanded cash and jewellery before leaving in possession of a large cream-coloured safe in the direction of Naze Lane East.

Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have seen someone acting suspiciously either on foot, in a vehicle or a motorbike to contact them.

The offender is described as white, 6ft tall, wearing a yellow fluorescent jacket, dark camouflage coloured combat trousers and a dark-coloured motorcycle helmet.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Smith, from Blackpool CID, said: "This was an appalling attack on a lone woman in her own home who has understandably been left extremely shaken by her ordeal. I am determined to bring the person responsible to justice.

"This incident occurred in daylight when many people would have been going about their usual daily business. It is also close to a popular plane spotting area and I would appeal for anyone who saw anything suspicious to contact police as a matter of urgency."

Anyone with information is asked to call Blackpool police on 01253 293933 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111