A 39-year-old man fought off two would-be robbers who targeted him as he sat in his car at traffic lights.
The man was in Queen Victoria Road, Burnley, when his car door was opened by the two men, who demanded money.
But the duo had met their match when the man from Nelson, who was alone in his vehicle at the time of the incident at 11.25pm on Friday, pushed the first man away.
His accomplice tried to kick the driver but they both fled when the 39-year-old shouted at the pair.
The men, both in their mid-20s, ran back to a white Vauxhall Cavalier and drove off empty-handed.
Detective Sergeant Peter Simm said: "This is the sort of offence I have heard about in London or Manchester, but I have never heard about it happening in Burnley.
"My advice to all motorists is if you are waiting at traffic lights or roadworks lock your doors."
The man was shaken by the incident but otherwise unhurt.
The first offender was white, with cropped hair and he had covered his face with what appeared to be a white t-shirt.
His accomplice had olive skin, with black spiky hair and a scarf over his face.
Burnley CID are now appealing for anybody with any information to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Burnley CID on 01282 425001.
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