A woman was threatened and robbed by an armed man during a carjacking as she sat at traffic lights.

The 39-year-old victim was in her Hyundai Getz car in North Lanarkshire on Monday night when the man opened her driver door and demanded she get out.

The robbery happened on Whifflet Street in Coatbridge at around 8.30pm and the woman tried to grab her phone and car keys but he demanded she hand the phone over.

He then raided the car and stole a number of personal items, as well as cash, before making off on foot towards School Street in the town.

The victim was uninjured and made her way towards another car which was sat at traffic lights nearby for help before calling police.

Police say the suspect is described as aged between 30 and 33, of thin build, with a Scottish accent. He had dark brown hair, and was wearing a dark hoodie with the hood up and jeans.

Constable Hardeep Singh Dulai, of Coatbridge Police Office, said: "This was a frightening experience for the woman concerned who was simply going about her own business when she was targeted. Thankfully, she was uninjured.

"There were a number of witnesses who were in their own cars whilst stationary at the traffic lights and we have spoken to them, however, I'd be keen to speak to anyone else who was nearby and who may have witnessed the incident.

"We're continuing significant enquiries into this incident which includes reviewing CCTV. The area of Whifflet Street where this happened is a very busy thoroughfare so I am confident that there will be people who may have been nearby that haven't spoken to police yet, therefore I would urge them to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.