A BUS driver fought back when he was confronted by a raider armed with a hunting knife and an axe, police said.

The Burnley and Pendle service driver was outside his bus, in Briercliffe Road, when a stocky man brandished a knife in front of him.

Detectives say the man demanded the takings from the driver, who was aged in his 60s.

Initially the driver returned to his cab and and picked up the cash box, containing his fares.

But as he prepared to hand over the box, the driver swung it at the man, momentarily distracting him.

Det Sgt Stuart Dixon said this enabled the driver to climb back on board the bus and closet the doors.

The man, who also appeared to be armed with an axe, remained outside the vehicle, for a short time but fled towards Queen Street when he realised he had been foiled.

Police say the man was white, aged 30, 5ft 10in tall and wore a blue woollen hat, dark red top and faded blue jeans.

Witnesses should call Burnley CID on 01282 425001.