TV appeal over 'callous' stabbing

Police have commended Mrs Williams for her bravery

A "callous attack" on a north Wales grandmother traumatised and unable to speak after being stabbed more than 20 times by a burglar has featured on the BBC Crimewatch UK programme.

Eirlys Williams, who is in her 60s and suffers from Parkinson's disease, was stabbed in her face, chest and forearm by a knife-wielding burglar in her Old Colwyn home after she tackled him.

Mrs Williams discovered him in her kitchen in Willow Close on the afternoon of 25 September, last year, after she and her husband Ken had been in their back garden.

Detectives have commended her for the courage she showed in confronting the intruder.

When Mrs Williams tried to grab him, he began to slash her with the knife but she continued to struggle with him until they both spilled out through the front door of the house.

This was a callous attack on a defenceless woman who refused to let a burglar steal sentimental property from her home Detective Constable Dave Brennan

The man escaped, leaving Mrs Williams covered with stab wounds and lying on the steps of her bungalow for almost 45 minutes before her cries for help were heard.

Distinctive medals

Detective Constable Dave Brennan, of North Wales Police, said: " This was a callous attack on a defenceless woman who refused to let a burglar steal sentimental property from her home.

"I cannot overemphasise how brave her actions were under the circumstances".

Despite her efforts, the burglar stole distinctive medals, an engraved watch and a moneybox shaped as a post box.

Mrs Williams has stated the burglar looks similar to the actor who portrayed him

Mrs Williams, who has been left housebound since the attack, was treated for her injuries at Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan.

The attacker is described as white, around 20 years of age, of slim build and about 5 feet 10 in (1.77 metres).

He was clean-shaven, described as scruffy, wearing a black baseball cap, a dark long-sleeved sweatshirt, dark jeans and was carrying a grey bag.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimewatch on 01492 510990.

A reconstruction of the attack was screened by Crimewatch UK on Tuesday on BBC One.