A SOUTHAMPTON shop was robbed by a hammer wielding thief less than two days before a teenager walked in "bleeding everywhere".

Yesterday morning, Police were called to "Bob and Paula Stores" on Valentine Avenue after a teenage boy staggered into the store after suffering a minor hand injury involving a weapon.

Officers have since confirmed that two males were arrested in connection with the incident that took place near Valentine School.

But on Wednesday December 11, less than two days before, the same shop was robbed of cash and cigarettes by a man wielding a hammer.

A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: "Officers were called to a report of a robbery at Bob and Paula Stores on Valentine Avenue just before 8pm on Wednesday night (December 11). A man entered the store and threatened a member of staff with a hammer before taking money from the till and cigarettes. The weapon was left at the scene and no injuries were reported."

Owner of the store, Steve Siva, was outraged by the robbery and has called for "more police patrols" to help combat the recent spate of Southampton shop robberies.

He said: "I wasn't there at the time, but my employee was very worried. Something needs to be done. Many shops seem to be being robbed in the area and people are simply not getting caught and then when they are caught, they get no proper punishments. It is always community orders and then they are back doing it again straight after!"

A local resident, who doesn't want to be named, was shocked when both incidents took place.

He said: "It's awful, I knew about the robbery but not the incident involving the boy. The owner of the shop can't be having a good week!"

Anyone who saw something suspicious on Wednesday November 11, or who has information on the robbery should call 101, quoting the reference number 44190445657.