The 23-year-old was walking past Tony’s Fish and Chip Shop, on Quarry Street, when two men approached her and struck up a conversation.

But it was all a bid to disarm the woman, who was then threatened with a knife by one of the thugs before being forced to hand over cash.

Police are now appealing for information on the shocking incident, which happened at around 5pm last Sunday, September 7.

One of the suspects is described as being in his mid to late twenties, with dark hair and wearing a black jumper with red lines and blue denim jeans.

The other suspect is described as being between 30-40 years old, with short grey hair and wearing a white polo shirt and long red and black shorts.

Inspector Steven Espie, of Johnstone Community Police, said: “Two men approached the woman near to Tony’s Chip Shop in Johnstone.

“They then struck up a conversation with her when she suddenly felt a knife prod her side. The men then demanded money from her and forced to hand over a large quantity of cash before they fled.

“We would urge anyone who may have witnessed this incident or may know anything about it to contact us by phoning 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”