POLICE investigating the death of a trusting Bolton grandmother who died after being shoved to the floor by a burglar in her home have arrested a teenager, police said on Saturday.

A murder investigation was launched after 88-year-old Phyllis Mayoh died in hospital just days after breaking her hip in an aggravated burglary at her home in Rosamun Street, Daubhill.

A 19-year-old from Bolton has been arrested in connection with the burglary and was due to be questioned by police..

Earlier on Saturday, Phyllis' best friend revealed in the Bolton Evening News how she was devastated she never got the chance to say goodbye to her before she died.

Hilda Whitehead, aged 72, said she was very sad that she was unable to say a final farewell to her next door neighbour.

The sneak thief threw the terrified pensioner to the floor after she discovered him in the living room.

Mrs Mayoh, who suffered a broken hip, underwent surgery at the Royal Bolton Hospital but died hours later in the intensive care unit. Her family was at her bedside.

The pensioner had lived in Rosamund Street all her life. Her death has shocked her neighbours.

Mrs Whitehead said: "It makes me feel very sad I didn't see her, didn't say goodbye. I thought it was best for her family to be by her side in hospital. I didn't realise she would die."

Mrs Mayoh, who was only 4ft 10ins and weighed just six stone, had been washing up in the kitchen of her home last Sunday when she was suddenly confronted by the burglar.

He pushed her to the floor, breaking her hip. He then picked her up and dragged her into the front room which doubled as a bedroom.

The burglar threw her onto the bed and threatened her.

He escaped with her purse which contained just £30 after she managed to pull the Careline emergency alarm.

Mrs Whitehead, who lives with her husband Kenneth, aged 73, said: "On Sunday, I was at home when suddenly I saw six police cars and a van pull up.

"There were police everywhere and I ran outside to see what was happening.

"As soon as I realised what was going on, I asked if I could go and see her, but they said not at that time.

"She was very independent and sometimes a bit bossy but not with me.

"I have started locking my front door now.

"Phyllis was so frail -- fancy picking her up and throwing her to the floor.

"I can't believe something like this could happen. Whoever did this should be sent to prison for a long long time.

"Phyllis was really nice -- she wouldn't hurt a fly.

"We have been such good friends. I was always popping next door to see if she wanted anything, particularly when I was going shopping.

"Most evenings, I used to go round to keep her company and have a chat. She will be sadly missed."

Det Supt Simon Barraclogh said: "It was a lovely sunny evening and there must have been children playing out on the streets or adults in their gardens.

"Someone must have seen this man leave Mrs Mayoh's house.

"The community is very shocked by what has happened and is helping us in every way they can.

"Mrs Mayoh's family are devastated. They were quite a close family and she was a very important part of that."

Anyone with information about the incident should call the incident room on 0161 856 5961.