THREE men have stolen £14,000 from a cash-in-transit driver in Southampton.

Police have launched an investigation after a 63-year-old man carrying money to a bank was robbed.

The robbery happened at around 1am yesterday in Bitterne precinct.

Three men reportedly approached the cash-in-transit driver and stole the cash box he was carrying. The men then left the scene on foot.

The driver, 63, was on foot making a delivery to Santander bank at the time of the robbery and was not injured during the incident.

A dark coloured Volvo was later found abandoned on Hillgrove Road which is believed to be linked to the incident.

The cassette box containing the cash was later found discarded in Rowlands Walk.

The three men are described as wearing dark coloured tracksuits.

Detective Inspector James Stewart from the Western Investigation Team at Southampton Central Police Station said: “We know this was late at night however we would like to appeal to anyone who was in the Bitterne precinct, Hillgrove Road or Rowlands Walk areas around this time who saw or heard anything suspicious, to get in contact with us.

"As ever, we would always remind employees working with large amounts of money to remain vigilant and call us to report anything or anyone suspicious - we are aware they are more vulnerable to these types of crimes.

“We have made contact with local businesses in Bitterne precinct today to ensure employers and employees are alert but not alarmed.

“I would urge anyone who saw a dark coloured Volvo being driven in the area before or after 1am to come forward and assist us with our enquiries. Call 101 and quote 44160194711.”