Three people have been threatened with knives during separate robberies in North Lanarkshire on Saturday morning.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the suspects made off with two cars.

The first robbery happened on Hillrigg in Greengairs at around 6.20am. Two men broke into the house and threatened a 30-year-old man, before making off with a Volkswagen Golf.

The second robbery took place at Killearn Crescent, Plains, at 7.05am when a 43-year-old woman was threatened. The suspects made off empty handed.

The last victim was at Orchill Drive, Plains, where a 56-year-old man was threatened at 7.14am.

The suspects stole a Mercedes C-class car which was found abandoned a short time later on Main Street, Plains. The vehicle is currently undergoing a full forensic examination.

The only description of the suspects at this time is that they were wearing dark clothing.

Detective inspector Cammy Miller said: "Thankfully none of the victims of these robberies have received any injuries, however, they are extremely distressed by these incidents and the men responsible must be caught.

"Extensive enquiries are ongoing to gather more information on these robberies and officers have been carrying out enquiries in the Airdrie area, and officers are gathering and studying CCTV footage.

"It is likely that these three robberies are linked and I would urge anyone who may have been in the areas around the times of these robberies, who saw anything suspicious to come forward."

Anyone with information can contact police on 101.