An 80-year-old woman fighting for her life in hospital after being set alight outside her own flat has been named by police as Brenda Raymond.

Detectives took the unusual step of publicly identifying the survivor of the attack as they try to find whoever was behind the violence.

Ms Raymond was found alight in a communal area of a block of flats at Caractacus Cottage View, Watford, just after 12.45pm on Monday. She remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Police believe some kind of liquid was sprayed on her before she was set on fire as she returned home.

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges, from the Major Crime Unit, said: "This was an appalling and deeply distressing attack on an elderly woman who suffered horrific injuries after being set alight outside her own home.

"Our thoughts very much remain with Brenda and her family as we continue to do everything we can to find out what happened and who is responsible.

"Her family are understandably distraught and have taken the step of releasing her name and photograph to help jog people's memories around this distressing and highly unusual incident.

"Someone out there knows something. You may have witnessed suspicious activity, heard a conversation, noticed unusual behaviour, or captured something on CCTV or dashcam footage without realising its significance.

"Please do not assume that what you know is too small or unimportant to tell us about. It could be a seemingly insignificant piece of information that provides investigators with the breakthrough they need.

“If you know anything about what happened to Brenda or think you may have information that could assist our inquiries, please come forward. Your information could be crucial in helping us find answers and bring those responsible to justice.”

Detectives say an accelerant liquid was also poured through the letterbox of a nearby flat. They want to hear from any witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously that afternoon.

They are also appealing for anyone who saw someone wearing a mask, or anyone fleeing towards nearby woodland.

Anyone who saw someone buying flammable liquid that day or shortly before is also urged to come forward.