woman and dragged her friend to the ground.

And they suspect the same gang could be responsible for attempting to rob a second cyclist on the same evening.

The two women were walking along Lighthouse Road near the Henry VIII Restaurant, Southampton, just before 9 p.m. on Sunday when they were approached by three men on two motorbikes.

One of the cyclists snatched a handbag from one of the women, causing her to fall to the ground. The second woman was also pulled to the ground as she tried to help her friend.

Both victims received cuts and bruises in the attack and needed hospital treatment.

The bag contained a camera, cash and other personal items.

In the second incident, which happened soon after, a 28-year-old visitor said he was driving a livery cycle on South Road, Southampton at about 9 p.m.

As he turned into the entrance to the Southampton Princess Hotel he was overtaken by three men who tried to force him to stop his vehicle.

He managed to fend the gang off and make it to the hotel where he contacted the Police.

Anyone with any information about the two incidents should contact Police on 295-0011.