POLICE believe the same gang is responsible for two attempted robberies and the theft of several hundred pounds from a Hampshire food store.

Detectives say they are linking all three incidents, which occurred in the Southampton area in less than 24 hours.

The first attempted robbery took place at the BetFred bookmakers in Lyndhurst High Street on Friday evening.

Four men burst into the premises at 9.20pm before fleeing empty-handed.

They are thought to have run into the grounds of the nearby Lyndhurst Park Hotel before disappearing. Police are attempting to track down the owner of a dark-coloured Volvo that was seen in the area at the time.

The second attempted robbery took place at the Hedge End branch of Ladbrokes bookmakers on Saturday at 6.20pm.

The gang again fled empty-handed but burst into Premier Foods in Portswood just 25 minutes later and got away with £300.

Staff at all three premises were threatened with violence, although police have not revealed if any weapons were used.

Earlier today a 19-year-old man was arrested at his Southampton home in connection with the incidents.

Police are also scouring CCTV footage and conducting house-to-house inquiries near all three properties targeted by the gang.

Detective Inspector Roger Middle, of Bitterne CID, said: "These men terrified shop staff by threatening them with violence and it's important that we find and detain them as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.