A BUS driver was knocked unconscious and cut with a blade after two youths boarded the vehicle and demanded money.

The 16-year-olds flagged down the bus at Intack traffic lights, Blackburn, and asked to be taken to Rothesay Road in Shadsworth about 10.50pm yesterday.

Inspector Mick Laraway, of Blackburn police, said they threatened the 34-year-old driver with a blade, demanding cash.

The driver refused to hand over money and the top of his arm was slashed, leaving a shallow wound about four inches long. He tried to escape but one of the boys knocked him unconscious. When he came to, the two boys had fled and the driver pressed the emergency panic button.

The driver was taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary where he was detained overnight, although Insp Laraway said his injuries were minor.

Officers were due to visit the hospital today to interview the driver to get full details of the incident and descriptions of the boys. Mr Laraway said the bus was undergoing forensic examination today.

There were no other passengers on board at the time.

He appealed for anyone with information about the attack to call Blackburn police on 01254 51212.