A MAN has stepped in to stop a teenage boy being robbed.

The man intervened during a robbery which happened when four 14-year-old boys were walking along Upper Northam Road, in Hedge End and ensured property was returned to the victim.

The group had been approached by another group of four by Greta Park and one of the group threatened two of the 14-year-olds and demanded they hand over their mobile phones.

One of the victims handed over his phone.

However, the man intervened and forced the offender to hand back the phone, who left empty handed.

No-one was injured.

The man who took the victim's phone is described as white, 5ft 6in tall, of stocky build, with pierced ears with square shaped shiny earrings.

He wore a beany hat, black coat and grey tracksuit bottoms.

Police are now looking to identify the man who helped.

Detective Constable Richard Jones, said: “I need to identify the man who intervened during this incident and prevented the situation escalating, as well as securing the return of the stolen property.

“I would urge him to come forward and speak to us.

“I would also like to speak with anyone else who may have seen what happened or anyone who has any information about who may be responsible.”

Anyone with any information on the incident, which happened on Friday, February 13, between 9.30pm and 9.50pm, is asked to call Det Con Jones, at Southampton police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.