A pair of thieves attacked a man and women in separate incidents just minutes apart.

Police are hunting the two suspects after the incidents in Hove on January 17.

The first happened between 5.45pm and 6pm when an 18-year-old man was approached in Hangleton Way.

He was punched in the head before the suspects ran away.

The second took place just minutes later also in Hangleton Road.

A woman was approached before having her bag snatched.

The pair then ran into Martin Road.

The offenders are described as white and aged 16 to 18.

One was 5' 9" with fair hair and wearing a light coloured hooded top.

The second was around 5' 5" with dark hair and was wearing a dark blue hooded top.

Detective Constable Andrew Beaumont said: "These crimes happened close to each other and within a matter of minutes so I believe the same people are responsible.

"If you were in the area at the time and saw or heard anything please contact us."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 1364 of 17/1, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.