A HUNT has been launched after two armed robberies – including one which police believe involved a gun.

Both incidents happened at about 10.30pm on Tuesday, November 6, and although they involved different people, police believe they may be linked.

One incident happened in the Tesco Express in Wessex Road, West End, where two men entered the store wearing face coverings.

They were carrying claw hammers and what was described as being a handgun.

Cash and cigarettes were taken during the raid and a "significant" amount of damage was caused to shop fittings.

It is believed the men left on foot from the back of the store and no-one was injured.

The first is described as being 18 to 30 years old, six feet tall, of a skinny build, and wearing dark clothing.

The second is described as being 18 to 30 years old, five feet and eight inches tall, of a medium build, and also wearing dark clothing.

At about the same time as the West End incident, a robbery happened at the Co-op on South East Road, Sholing, Southampton.

Three masked men armed with knives threatened staff, and a member of staff had a clump of her hair pulled out.

The three, who left empty handed were described as being 16 to 25 years old, six feet tall, and of a medium build.

A Hampshire Constabulary statement says: "If you have any information about these incidents, please call 101 quoting the relevant crime reference number.

"Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"In an emergency, call 999."

The crime reference for the West End raid is 44180417966 and the crime reference for the Sholing raid is 44180417994.