A burglar kicked down the door of a house and then threatened to kill the disabled owner.

The man cut the telephone wires so 55-year-old Mary Carberry could not call for help.

She sat screaming while the burglar took her purse and then returned to steal her video recorder from her home in Scholemoor, Bradford.

Police called the burglary, which took place at 11.50pm yesterday, despicable and today appealed for information or witnesses to the incident.

Miss Carberry, who has to use a wheelchair, said last night's burglary was terrifying.

"I heard my door getting kicked down while I was watching television, then saw this man and I thought I was going to die. I couldn't do anything," she said.

"I can't walk anywhere and he said he was going to punch my face in. I was terrified.

"I think he must have been after money, but I told him I didn't keep any in the house."

Sergeant Roy Wensley, of Toller Lane police station, said it was a terrible incident and urged people to come forward with information.

He said it was a disgusting attack on a helpless woman.

"It must have been horrendous to sit there, unable to do anything about it," said Sgt Wensley.

"This was a particularly despicable and disgusting burglary carried out against a vulnerable person.

"We are appealing for anyone who knows anything about this incident to get in touch."

The burglar is described as white, about 5ft 8ins, of stocky build, in his 30s and with curly hair. He was wearing a green T-shirt and a black cap.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt Wensley on Bradford 376219 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Callers do not have to give their name to Crimestoppers and could claim a cash reward.

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