A GROUP of Greek students were robbed at gunpoint in a terrifying attack on the M6 motorway.

The four were planning a night out in the area when they were conned into stopping on the hard shoulder before being threatened by two men who were wielding a handgun.

The students, based in Bradford, were travelling along the northbound M6 close to Forton services when their car, a Citroen Xsara with Greek registration and left hand drive, when a hatchback pulled along side them.

The front seat passenger in the hatchback gestured to suggest that something was wrong with the car and indicated that the students should pull in to the hard shoulder.

The other car pulled up in front of the students and the front seat passenger got out, wearing a crash helmet and carrying what is described as a small, black handgun.

The man demanded money of the students and ordered them to look away from the road.

Meanwhile, a second man emerged from the car and opened the boot of the other car, stealing property including laptop computers, mobile phones and cash.

The robbers then drove off on the northbound carriageway.

DC Ian Gregson said: "This is an unusual type of crime that the Lancashire Constabulary Motorway Unit is dealing with.

"We want to ensure that the public feel safe when travelling through Lancashire, and we urgently need information to help us trace the persons responsible for this crime."

The incident took place last Thursday night, between 11.10pm and 11.50pm.

Anyone with any information should contact Lancashire police's motorway division on 01772 410465 or Fleetwood CID on 01253 604445.

Messages can also be left on the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.