POLICE have released this CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to following three robberies in Andover.

The first incident occurred at about 2.15pm on Thursday, 17 January when the victim was walking past Andover College, in Charlton Road. She was approached by a man from behind who grabbed her hand bag, containing money and a mobile phone. The man then ran off along Shepherd Spring Lane and through the cemetery.

The second incident happened at some time between 8.30pm and 9pm on Wednesday, 13 February when the victim was walking along New Street at the back of Carpet Right on Watery Lane, Andover. As the victim was finishing a phone call on his mobile phone, the offender walked past the victim. The offender, who was brandishing a small kitchen knife, then turned and walked behind the victim, demanding he hand over his mobile phone. He grabbed the mobile phone and ran off in the direction of Colenzo Drive.

At about 3pm on Tuesday, 19 February a woman was walking along Woodlands Way in the direction of Eastfield Road when a man approached her from behind and grabbed her mobile phone from her hand. Two other men and possibly a woman then ran up behind her and stole her shopping and handbag.

Police believe all three incidents are linked.

The main offender that police want to speak to is described as white, between 5ft 8ins and 6ft, of average build and wearing a bomber style long sleeved zip up coat which was dark brown or plum in colour. The coat did not have a hood but the man wore a dark hooded top underneath, with the hood up covering his face. He wore dark coloured tracksuit bottoms with white stripes down the side (possibly Adidas). He was also wearing trainers which were possibly white Reeboks with a black detail on the side and black soles.

Pc Gemma Smith said: "I believe all three incidents are linked and I am appealing for anyone with any information about who may be responsible to come forward and speak to us.

“I would urge anyone with any information to get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity to help us find the people responsible for these incidents."

Anyone with information should contact Pc Smith at Andover police station on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.