ARMED robbers burst into a Bournemouth town centre flat and threatened three terrified students to steal thousands of pounds worth of goods.

Their victims were threatened with a hammer and one was struck in the face during the frightening ordeal in Tregonwell Road.

One victim, a 20-year-old Bournemouth man, suffered grazes to his face and neck and two 22-year-old Bournemouth men were lucky to escape without injury.

Laptops, mobile phones and wallets were stolen during the incident, which took place at around 10pm on Thursday, June 2.

Now detectives have issued an e-fit of one of the two offenders and have appealed to the public for help in identifying him.

“The three friends were in the lounge when two unknown offenders entered the room – one of these men was holding a hammer” said DC Symon Clarke of Bournemouth CID.

“They threatened the victims with violence and demanded their possessions, including laptops, mobile phones and wallets. One of the robbers grabbed hold of the 20-year-old victim and struck him in the face.”

Both attackers are described as white and 18-21-years-old. One is around five feet six inches tall, slim and wearing dark clothing and the other is around five feet ten inches tall, with a pronounced jaw and cheekbones, slightly gaunt in appearance. He was wearing dark grey or navy blue clothing.

“I am appealing for anyone who recognises this man, and anyone who has any information about the two men responsible for this alarming attack, to get in touch with the police immediately” added DC Clarke.

“It is essential that anyone with any information that may help me to apprehend these two robbers should contact me as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 01202 222222 in confidence, quoting reference number 2:606 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Mobile phone tariffs may apply.