A MAN was dragged to the ground and beaten during a vicious robbery in a Hampshire town.

The 21-year-old victim was walking along Desborough Road in Eastleigh between 1.30 and 1.40am when he saw two men running towards him.

They dragged him to the floor and threatened him, demanding his phone and wallet.

He was punched in the head during the attack, but his assailants fled when a group of youths intervened.

One of them phoned the police.

The victim suffered a bruised and swollen face.

Inspecting officer Detective Constable Susan Hampton said: “This was a violent and unprovoked robbery on a young man who was walking home from work.

“We'd like to hear from anyone who saw what happened, or who has information to come forward.”

The incident happened between 1.30 and 1.40pm on Sunday.

Anyone with information should contact DC Hampton at Eastleigh on 101.