Gardener charged with allegedly assaulting 85-year-old woman for hours in her Newcastle home

A man has been charged after he allegedly indecently assaulted an elderly woman in her home in Edgeworth, in Newcastle, last night.

The 85-year-old woman was home alone when a 53-year-old man, who had previously done gardening work for her, allegedly entered the house.

He allegedly indecently assaulted the woman several times from 6pm until 8.10pm.

The 85-year-old managed to press an alarm to alert a relative, who came to her aid.

The relative saw the man leaving as they arrived at the home.

Paramedics were called and treated the 85-year-old woman for non-life threatening injuries.

Police arrested a 53-year-old at nearby Cameron Park, and he has since been charged with assault with intent to commit sexual assault and aggravated break and enter.

He was refused bail to face Newcastle Local Court today.