AN ATTEMPTED robbery investigation has been launched after men on a motorbike tried to snatch a cash box from a security guard at a city petrol station.

Police say the two men attempted to grab a cash box off of a G4S security guard as he returned to his van from the Tesco petrol station kiosk on West End Road, Bitterne.

But he was helped by a member of the public who intervened.

The two men left empty-handed.

The incident took place around 2.45pm on Monday, February 17.

After the incident, the two men made off on the motorbike down West End Road in the direction of Bitterne.

A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: "Were you in the area around this time on Monday 17 February?

"If you witnessed anything suspicious or have any CCTV or dash cam footage which may assist our investigation, please call 101 and quote 44200061155.

"Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and leave information anonymously."