Two men are in hospital with serious injuries after being attacked with a wooden table leg in a violent robbery. 

A man in his 20s and a man in his 30s were walking along Starboard Way, Southampton when they were approached by a group of unknown males, police say. 

The group allegedly tried to steal rucksacks from the pair before being joined by two further people on mopeds and one on a bicycle. 

Both men were attacked with a wooden table leg and suffered serious injuries. 

The man in his 20s got a head injury and the man in his 30s suffered face and jaw injuries.

READ MORE: Fareham man arrested as boat washes up on Bournemouth beach

Both were taken to hospital for treatment where they remain at this time. 

A third man, who is in his 40s, sustained minor injuries to his arm.

Officers are now investigating the incident which took place at around 9.35pm on Sunday evening (August 4) and have released a photo of a man they would like to speak to. 

A spokesperson said: "Officers have been in the area carrying out enquiries into this incident and we would now like to hear from any witnesses, or anyone with CCTV or ring doorbell footage that have not yet spoken to police.

"Or perhaps you were driving through the area around the time of the assaults and have dash cam footage that may have captured something?

"We are particularly keen to hear from the man pictured, who was seen in the area at the time, in connection with our enquiries.

"Anyone who recognises him, or has any information that may assist our enquiries, should get in touch with us as soon as possible by calling 101 or visiting the police website quoting the reference number 44240332688.

"Officers will be carrying out increased high visibility patrols in the area as part of our enquiries and ongoing response to this incident and anyone with concerns, questions or information is asked to please come and speak to them.

"You can also reach out to your designated neighbourhood officer to discuss any concerns you may have."