TWO teenagers put a bus driver through a terrifying knifepoint attempted robbery ordeal as he drove through a York estate.

Witnesses spotted the First driver "under attack" from the two youths as he drove past shops in Chapelfields Road at the Bramham Road junction.

Police said the driver had activated the vehicle's on-board alarm. The incident was recorded on the bus's digital CCTV camera. No money was actually taken.

First managing director Jonathan May today said the driver was "very shaken," and was recovering at home.

He was being offered support from the company.

Mr May said buses into Chapelfields would continue, with the company working with the community to tackle the problem. He said: "We do not believe we should disadvantage the community because of the actions of a minority of individuals. We want to provide the safest possible environment for staff and customers, and will be looking to forge strong links with the community to tackle this from the inside."

Mr May said First would look to work with Westfield Ward councillors, youth workers, youth offending teams and community leaders to stamp out the problems.

Attacks on buses on the Chapelfields estate have previously forced First to suspend its late-night service beyond Ridgeway, Acomb, on at least two occasions.

First bosses brought the service back in July last year, blaming problems on a small number of individuals. But Chapelfields residents warned of risks associated with the area.

They advised the company not to use Bramham Road as a terminus, claiming that would be "asking for trouble."

Police have also mounted a guard on buses to try and prevent vandalism and other incidents.

Acomb councillor Tracey Simpson-Laing today appealed for anyone with information about the attack to ring the police or Crimestoppers.

The knife-wielding youth was wearing a white sweatshirt and a white baseball cap.

The incident happened at 9.20pm on Saturday. Anyone with information should contact York police on 01904 631321. Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111.

Updated: 11:48 Monday, May 19, 2003