THUGS robbed a disabled man and threw him out of his wheelchair in a city park.

The 51-year-old paraplegic was making his way through Palmerston Park in the heart of Southampton when the two robbers struck.

They grabbed his bag and also a bum bag containing his medication and money, before tipping over his chair.

The victim, who is paralysed from the chest down, was left helpless on the ground for half an hour before a passer-by found him.

Police were called and the man was taken to hospital where he was last night said to be in considerable pain.

Officers were today urging witnesses to the attack, which happened close to the back of Que Pasa, between Above Bar and New Road, to come forward.

The robbery took place shortly after 7.30am yesterday. It is thought the attackers ran off, possibly in the direction of East Park.

Detectives yesterday carried out house to house inquiries and visited businesses in the area in the hope of gathering CCTV footage of the robbers.

PC Ian Pierce, who is investigating the crime, said: “This was a cruel and callous attack on a vulnerable man unable to defend himself. To then tip him out of his wheelchair shows just how low these robbers are prepared to go and we need to catch those responsible.

“We’d also like to hear from anyone who may have seen the victim as he made his way through the park. He is described as using a purple wheelchair and was wearing a black top with a ‘Mad Dog’ motif on it.”

■ Anyone with information can call the Priority Crime Team at Hulse Road on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.