threatened to rape her.

The woman managed to escape and as her attacker fled neighbours who had heard her screams rushed to help her.

Police attended the West Avenue, Southampton residence just after 11 p.m.

The woman told Police she was sleeping alone at home when she was touched inappropriately and woke up to find a man standing over her.

He threatened to rape and beat her if she resisted or made any noise.

The woman said she continued to struggle and attempted to get to the phone, but the intruder grabbed it from her and hit her repeatedly causing injuries to her face and mouth.

She managed to escape but was taken to hospital for treatment.

Active inquiries are underway by Western CID.