A MAN breached security, burst into a 101-year-old woman's room and demanded money.

It is believed that Doris Sumner, who lives in sheltered accomodation, was too scared to use her security pendant to raise the alarm.

The robber negotiated his way through an intercom system and a security door before targeting the vulnerable pensioner.

She threw over her purse but he threw it back at her because it was empty.

He then left her room at Lewis House in Chingford Mount Road, Chingford, empty-handed.

Acting Det Sgt Stuart Cheek said: "This is a cowardly attack on a woman who wasn't going to fight back. She has poor mobility because of her age and has exceptionally bad eyesight and that is why she is unable to identify the robber.

"We want to talk to people who have heard anyone bragging about this robbery. Maybe he has bragged about it in a pub to one of his friends or his girlfriend."

Police believe that this is not the first time the robber has targeted care homes.

Lewis House is managed by Southern Housing Group.

Its regional director Pamela Bhamra said: "I am dismayed that a vulnerable woman has been robbed in her own home. We extend our deepest sympathy to her over this unfortunate incident.

"We operate a robust security procedures and have recently upgraded the video intercom at Lewis House. This community alarm system uses CCTV and incorporates an entryphone and camera on the front door that allows residents to see who is calling via their television screen."

Mrs Sumner, who has lived at the home since 1984, has no idea how the robber gained entry to her room at about 11am on Monday, March 3.

She described the burglar as a white man, aged around 30, 5ft 8ins tall, with a dark coloured suit and fair hair.

If you have information call Det Sgt Cheek on 8345 3195 or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.