A BUS driver was terrorised by a robber who attacked his vehicle before escaping with cash.

The driver of the Stagecoach bus was driving towards Hartlepool when the attack happened on the road into Greatham village, just off the A689, at 11.40pm on Saturday.

The bus was forced to stop when it came across a red car, blocking the road.

Detective Sergeant Tony Green of Hartlepool police said: "The bus could not get past because of the car, so the driver approached the car to see if he could offer assistance.

"The driver of the red car then pulled on a balaclava and got out of the car. He smashed the windscreen and headlights of the bus before demanding money from the bus driver."

The bus driver handed over the money and the car sped off.

The bus driver and the three passengers were unhurt but shaken by the attack.

Det Sgt Green said: "This was an unusual offence but we would ask people to keep it in proportion."

The car driver was described as 6ft of medium build and wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call (01642) 326326.