A WITNESS appeal has been launched by police after masked robbers pushed a delivery driver out of a van and drove off.

The delivery driver, who was driving a grey Ford Transit, was approached by two mopeds carrying three men.

A passenger on one of the mopeds pushed the driver out of the way before getting into the van, which had stopped along Springford Road close to the junction of Aldermoor Road and Number 17 bus stop.

The robbery happened between 4.15pm and 4.22pm on Sunday December 1.

The van and two mopeds drove off towards Tremona Road, almost hitting a woman who tried to stop them.

The woman has since been identified by police.

Officers say the men went through the parcels in the back of the van before abandoning the stolen vehicle in Hollybrook Cemetery shortly after the incident.

Now, police say they would like witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage to help with the investigation.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We’re appealing for witnesses and dash cam footage following a robbery that took place in Springford Road in Southampton on December 1.

“The victim’s phone was found close to the entrance of the hospital grounds.

“The men are described as wearing dark clothing with their faces covered.

“It is believed the mopeds had been in the Cowdray Close area shortly before the robbery.

“Were you in any of these areas at the time or have any relevant dash cam footage? Did you witness anything or have any information that will assist us in identifying the men involved? Furthermore were you on the number 17 bus at the time?

“If you can help please call 101 quoting 44190432271.”

“Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and leave information anonymously.

“In the run up to Christmas, it’s a busy time of year so we’d like to remind delivery drivers to be alert and for the public to be vigilant to any suspicious activity.”