A MAN has pleaded guilty to attempted murder and sexual assault of a pensioner.

Anthony Roberts, 56, attacked the woman in the early hours of Sunday, May 7 on Kleve Walk in Worcester.

Today, the 56-year-old, of Green Hill in Worcester, pleaded guilty to attempted murder, sexual assault and possession of a bladed article in a public place at Birmingham Crown Court.

Roberts' attack left his 71-year-old victim in a critical condition in hospital.

She has since been discharged.

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Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Gareth Lougher, said: “Roberts brutally attacked a lone woman in the early hours of the morning, leaving her in a critical condition.

“I’m pleased he has pleaded guilty to the offences today and spared his victim having to relive the horrific ordeal through a trial.”

Roberts will be sentenced on Monday, October 2.

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A police cordon was established along the riverside path between Copenhagen Street car park and Diglis Parade.

Police were called shortly after 2am on Sunday, May 7, and officers immediately responded to the scene.

The incident shocked people in South Quay who were enjoying a weekend stroll by the River Severn.

A couple who went for a morning walk along the river said: “We had heard something had happened but we had no idea it was here until just now.”

A little further down a group that was sat by the river said they were also shocked by the news.

One said: "We've seen the news on the Worcester News website. It is very distressing to hear."

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Another person sitting by the riverside said: “We have seen what’s happened and we can’t believe it. 

“Police are up there blocking off the pathway.”

Police patrols were increased in the area to offer reassurance to people who were passing by the River Severn.

People were also warned that the riverside path stretching between Quay Street and Diglis Parade was to remain cordoned off throughout the day and monitored by officers at the scene.