A BASINGSTOKE councillor has called for improved visual presence of police in town following two recent assaults.

In the first incident on Thursday, January 12, a 37-year-old man was stabbed, punched and robbed by two men in Highpath Way.

In the second incident on Friday, January 20, a 26-year-old man suffered serious injuries after five armed men with knives assaulted him in a parked car in Blackmoor Drive.

Police have issued witness appeals after both incidents as the assaulters are yet to be caught.

READ MORE: Basingstoke man, 37, stabbed and robbed by two males who approached him for lighter

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Councillor Jay Ganesh has now asked police to provide an improved visual presence in Rooksdown because of these incidents.

He said: “As the ward councillor I have been in contact with Hampshire & IoW Constabulary asking that they provide an increased visual presence within Rooksdown whilst these incidents are investigated.

“I will be talking to the policing team again this week to be assured that the constabulary will provide this additional patrolling. I want to assure residents that we will continue to monitor the situation and ensure our streets are kept safe.”