A woman was threatened at knife point during a terrifying street robbery in Southampton.

Police launched an investigation after the woman was approached and threatened outside a block of flats in James Street at around 3am on Monday.

The man reportedly threatened the 47-year-old woman with a knife or similar bladed article outside the communal door of the block of flats numbered 21 to 65, and demanded her belongings.

The man stole the woman’s handbag containing three mobile phones, a purse and a mini iPad.

The woman, who was not injured in the incident, shouted for help.

The man then left and the area and was last seen heading towards Chantry footbridge.

The man is described as:

  • White Late 30s to early 40s
  • Six feet tall
  • Slim build
  • Short brown hair
  • Clean shaven.

He was wearing a grey coloured hooded jacket, light blue jeans and trainers.

Detective Constable Maria Sweeney from the Western Investigation Team said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to make contact with us.

"Did you hear a commotion around this time on James Street?

"Did you see a man running from the area? We want to hear from you.

“Please come forward and assist us with our investigation. Call 101 in confidence and quote 44160219943.”