The hunt contnues today after bar staff at a popular Southampton nightspot were threatened when six masked men burst in while they were closing up and demanded cash.

One male member of staff at the Pitcher and Piano bar in Ocean Village was threatened with a screwdriver and punched in the face by one of the men while the team was cashing up.

Another female member of staff was shoved to one side as the men forced their way into the waterfront bar.

The offenders stole a quantity of cash and a till drawer in the incident which happened between 10.45pm and 11.15pm on Sunday night.

They then made their way through the fire exit to a vehicle which was waiting for them in Channel Way.

Officers from Hampshire police would like to speak to anyone who saw a vehicle parked in Channel Way at the time of the incident or who has come across a discarded till drawer since Sunday evening.

A storm drain was left at the scene by the offenders and officers would like to hear from anyone who may know where it was stolen from.

Detective Constable Sheila Mason said: “In particular we would like to speak to a taxi driver who pulled into the car park at the side of the bar at 10.54pm and the single male they picked up.

Daily Echo:

“A bit later, at 11.10pm, another car pulled into the nearby car park, which parked up for a few minutes before leaving. The driver of that car may have seen something.

“We are also keen to speak to the people who were out on a balcony of one of the flats which overlooks the walkway to Channel Way as they may have seen or heard something which could help with this investigation.”

In 2012, the adjacent Banana Wharf restaurant was targeted by thieves in a £20,000 raid.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Mason at Southampton CID on 101, quoting 44150406465, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.