SIX men have separately been targeted in a series of robberies which took place in Basingstoke town centre.

The victims were all approached by a group of three men on the street before being threatened and items taken from them.

The incidents took place in Church Square, Goat Lane, Eastrop Stores in Eastrop Way and near Victory Roundabout between 8.45pm and 10.40pm last night.

None of the victims, all aged between 15 and 19, were injured in the robberies, with items including cash, mobile phones and headphones being taken.

The group carrying out the robberies were described as wearing black clothing, including hooded tops with the hoods up. One of them wore a black scarf with a white skeleton jaw design over his face.

Detective Sergeant Andy Heward, at Basingstoke CID, said: “We are treating these robberies as linked and we are keen to hear from anyone who has information on what happened.

“Were you in the Eastrop/town centre area last night? Did you notice three men wearing hooded tops, possibly riding bikes?

“Did you capture any footage of what took place on any private CCTV system?

“Any information you hold may be significant to our investigation.”

Increased police patrols will take place in the area, to provide reassurance to the community.

Anyone with information is asked to call Basingstoke CID on 101, quoting 44160488868 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.