A MAN who committed an ‘evil’ sex attack on an 88-year-old woman after breaking into her home has been branded ‘wicked’ by police.

Wayne Oxley pleaded guilty to attempted rape and assault causing actual bodily harm and is facing a lengthy prison sentence.

The woman, of the Woodnook area of Accrington, managed to fight off Oxley, but was left battered and bloodied.

He then fled the property and the woman's son alerted police.

Detectives believe Oxley, 37, of Burnley Road, Accrington, had gone out to commit a ‘premeditated’ attack.

They said they believed he had also tried to target another woman living nearby before the attack on August 26 this year.

Oxley hit the headlines in 2007 when he was jailed for an attempted burglary.

During this case, it emerged he had set up home with his probation officer, who was then sacked from the agency.

It is understood the couple have since separated.

Speaking after the latest case, Detective Superintendent Neil Hunter, who led the investigation, said Oxley was a ‘sad and wicked’ individual who was a danger to women.

He said: “It is despicable that a lady of mature years should have lived this long only to be subjected to an evil attack in her own home.

"If it had not been for the courage that the victim demonstrated in fighting off Oxley then this could have been far worse.

“Specially trained officers have worked with the victim right through this case and she has shown exceptional bravery and dignity throughout.

“Yesterday’s plea is a tribute to her courage and determination.

"She has been through a traumatic and distressing incident that is unimaginable.

"She has had tremendous support from her family.

"She has been determined to return to the same way of life she led before and to maintain her independance.

“The people of Accrington can be reassured that Oxley is now behind bars and off our streets.

“I would also like to pay tribute to the forensic science work undertaken which was a major focus of the investigation and has ultimately has led to his guilty plea.”

The crime shocked the town. Coun Peter Britcliffe, leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: "This was an absolutely dreadful attack and everyone who heard about it was completely shocked.

"It is incredibly important that criminals like this are brought to book."

During the course of the investigation, police discovered that on the night of the attack a man had knocked on the door of another Woodnook resident and demanded to be let into her home.

He ran away when she said she was calling the police but she was able to give a detailed description of him to officers.

Oxley was arrested four days later, on August 30.

Mr Hunter said: "I am convinced that had the other woman not disturbed Oxley then she would also have been a victim."

Oxley was remanded in custody at Burnley Crown Court until the week starting February 23 for pre-sentence and psychiatric reports.

Dennis Watson, defending, said Oxley, who had mental health issues, would want his own psychiatric report.