A close-knit community has expressed its shock after a man was robbed of his car at knife-point in a leafy country lane.

The car-jacking happened on New Years Eve close to Waveney Forest, a well-known nature haven and dog-walking spot.

Police are calling it “a one off” and say there is no danger to the wider public.

It is believed the offenders have left the county.

Meanwhile the victim has appealed through social media for the return of his black Vauxhall Astra and told his followers he was “shocked.”

He said: “A man decided to put a knife to my throat and take my car with everything in. Please keep an eye out for my car although I’m sure it’s long gone.”

Parish councillor for Fritton Keith Nunn said: “I should think it would be very frightening for those involved.”

Two suspects reportedly pulled a knife on a young couple close to Fritton Woods, also know as Waveney Forest, at around 7-7.30pm on New Year’s Eve, before stealing the vehicle.

They were told to get out of the car and the suspects then drove off in the man’s black Vauxhall Astra, leaving him shocked.

A police spokesman said it was believed the suspects were also responsible for a burglary in New Road which leads to the woods just before the car-jacking when electrical items were stolen from a house.

The location of the Astra is a police priority.

Insp Paul McCarthy of Yarmouth police moved to assure the public there was no wider danger.

Officers, were, he said, actively seeking those responsible and it was believed the offenders had left the county.

He urged anyone who saw the black Astra to contact Yarmouth CID.

Keith Nunn, parish councillor and former chairman of Fritton with St Olaves Parish Council said he was shocked to hear about the violent crime on his doorstep, adding: “It is not something you expect to happen here. I should think it would have been very frightening.”

New Road is a leafy, narrow track leading to Waveney Forest.

The woods are listed as an amenity but public access to the car park has been shut off for around three years.

Consequently people park on the verges close to homes to access the woods.

Anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area between the times stated, or has seen the black Astra since should contact DC Beth Burton at Yarmouth CID on 101.

It is understood the car could have a dent on the rear, where the suspects reversed into a tree as they drove away.

It’s registration plate is AY58 HFN.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.