POLICE are hunting a hooded thief who robbed a woman as she walked her dog in a Hampshire neighbourhood.

The 22-year-old was taking her dog for a walk on an area of grass in Firs Drive, in Hedge End, when she was approached by a stranger as she cut through to Woodside Way.

He demanded her mobile phone but when she said she didn't have it, he started searching her pockets and stole some cash, before fleeing in the direction of Granada Road.

The man is described as being white, aged in his late 20's, of a medium build and with stubble on his face. He was wearing dark clothing including a dark blue or grey hooded zip top with the hood up.

Detective Constable Stephen Ashe, from Eastleigh police station, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who was in the area of Firs Drive, Granada Road and Woodside Way late on Saturday night into the early hours of Sunday morning and saw anything which may assist with our investigation into this incident.”

He added: “Incidents like this are extremely unusual in Hedge End. However, it is always worth reminding members of the public to take care. If you are out late at night stick to well-lit areas and try to avoid going out alone.”

Anyone with information about the robbery, which happened at 12.30am on November 30, should contact DC Ashe at Eastleigh police station by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.