TWO Southampton bookies were the target of knifepoint robberies within 24 hours of each other.

The two bookmakers targeted each saw a man walk into the store holding a knife and demanding cash from frightened cashiers who handed the money in white carrier bags.

The first incident was at Ladbrokes on Aldermoor Road in Lordshill on Monday at 7pm, the second took place at Coral bookmakers in Bitterne on Tuesday at 6pm.

Police believe the two robberies are linked,and the suspect is described as white, 5 ft 6 to 5ft 8 tall, of slim build and was wearing a black coat with a hood with light green lining, dark trousers, a beanie hat and wore a scarf covering his face.

Detective Constable Kimberley Bownes from the Western Investigation team said: “Thankfully the cashiers involved in these incidents were not injured or harmed in any way but they were both left frightened by the actions of the suspect or suspects.

“These incidents are similar and at this time we cannot rule out that they may have been committed by the same offender and are therefore investigating them as potentially linked at this time.”

“Did you see anyone matching the description of the suspects in the area of the offences? Have you heard anyone talking about these crimes?”

Anyone with information about these incidents should contact DC Bownes at Southampton police station by calling 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.