knifeman.

The robberies occurred on Saturday within two hours of each other.

In the first, a man demanded cash after entering a gift shop at Southampton Princess Hotel.

It is believed he escaped with a small amount of cash from the till after threatening the shop attendant with a knife.

Police say the attendant escaped uninjured, but was extremely shaken by the ordeal.

The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m.

At about 12.15 p.m. a knifeman entered the Hayward's premises in Middle Road, Warwick.

A small amount of cash was also thought to have been stolen, although nobody was injured.

A 23-year-old Southampton man was helping Police with inquiries into the incident.

Police spokesman P.c. Gary Venning said the two robberies could be linked.

"The possibility there is a connection has not been ruled out.'' He added Police would like to speak to anyone who can help with their investigation.

People with information should ring Det. Sgt. Ralph Furbert at Central CID.

Also over the weekend, a knifeman confronted a 25-year-old St. George's man in Angle Street at about 9.30 p.m. on Friday.

The would-be robbery failed, however, because the intended victim had no money.

Said Mr. Venning: "Prompt action by the attending Police officers resulted in a 25-year-old Pembroke man being arrested in connection with the incident.'' He added inquiries were continuing.

The alert was sounded after a boat struck the reefs off Cooper's Island yesterday.

Marine Police helped bring the vessel, Encore , to shore.

It is thought one person was on the boat, which had come from the Caribbean.

A Harbour Radio spokesman said the vessel was being repaired at St. George's.

Meanwhile, Harbour Radio and the United States Coast Guard are probing a mysterious Mayday distress signal.

The location of the signal has not been worked out, the Harbour Radio spokesman said.