A WOMAN abducted by a knifeman in a busy Bolton street and forced to drive to Leeds was today recovering at home.

The 47-year-old married business woman was not injured although she was continually threatened by the man during the 45 mile terror ride which lasted up to 90 minutes.

The woman, who has not been identified, has given police a good description and has enabled them to release an artist's impression of the wanted man.

The knifeman struck as the woman was unloading her silver BMW estate car on a side street off Chorley New Road on Thursday at about 8.45am.

The man of Arabic appearance threatened her with a seven inch knife. He held the knife at her throat and ordered her to drive along the M62 and eventually on to the M621, where the car was caught up in queues of traffic.

The kidnapper then jumped out of the vehicle close to junction one of the motorway near to Leeds United Football Club's Elland Road stadium.

Police believe the man may have had no other motive for the abduction other than he wanted a "lift" to the Leeds area.

The man leading the investigation, Det Sgt Andy Cunliffe of Bolton CID, said: "It appears to be an opportunist Crime.

"This man appeared as she was unloading her car and demanded to be taken to Leeds. He saw his chance and took it." Police have also revealed further details about the woman's ordeal.

Det Sgt Cunliffe added: "She was absolutely terrified. She tried to strike up conversations with him during the journey but he would not talk to her."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact officers at Astley Bridge CID on 0161 856 5740 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111