CARJACKERS have struck three times in the past few days, threatening motorists with a sword and a knife.

On Tuesday afternoon, a woman was approached by two masked men in Abden Street, Bury, at about 12.30pm.

The men brandished a knife and forced the 47-year-old woman to hand over the keys to her silver Volkswagen Golf. The car, registration V5ONE, is still missing.

On the same day, a 50-year-old woman was threatened by a man with a knife in Hilton Crescent, Sedgeley Park, Bury, shortly before 6pm.

He ordered her to hand over the keys of her silver Audi A6. The car was found at the rear of the shops in Peel Brow on Wednesday.

Then on Monday evening, a 38-year-old man was confronted by a masked man brandishing a sword who ordered him to hand over the keys to his car.

He had just pulled up outside his home in a black Chrysler Neon in Hawkstone Avenue, Whitefield, at about 7.15pm.

The thief drove off in his car, which was recovered just after midnight yesterday in York Street, Whitefield.

All three victims escaped injury, but were left shaken.

Last week, John Craggs was threatened with a large spanner by three masked carjackers who stole his Honda Civic Type R from outside his home in Lostock.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the latest incidents in Bury and are warning drivers to be extra vigilant.

"We would urge all motorists to be aware of their surroundings while getting in and out of their cars," said a spokesman.

"Security on vehicles is so advanced nowadays that the only way to steal a car is if you can get hold of the keys. These people are prepared to use violence or threats of violence to get what they want.

"If you see anything suspicious, call the police straight away."

Anyone with information is asked to call Bury Robbery Unit on 0161 856 8093, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.