A MAN is ill in hospital after he and another man were stabbed during a burglary in Basingstoke.

At around 8pm on Monday evening, three men aged in their early 20s forced their way into a property in Aldworth Crescent, South Ham.

Once inside, they demanded money from a 24-year-old man and a 45-year-old man, but then stabbed them both, leaving empty-handed, in what police believe was a targeted attack.

Both victims were taken to Basingstoke hospital. The 45-year-old man has been released but the 24-year-old man remains in hospital.

Police are appealing for witnesses, particularly anybody who saw three men running through the South Ham estate on Monday night.

The first attacker is described as white, in his early 20s, and wore a dark hooded top.

The other two men are described as black and wore dark clothing with dark veils over their mouths and noses.

Detective Constable Pete Hanson, of Basingstoke CID, said: "We believe this incident was targeted and not a random attack.

"It was an extremely violent crime that has resulted in both occupants receiving nasty injuries.

"The offenders ran off along Sandys Road in the direction of King's Road and we would ask anyone who was in the area on Monday night to contact us."

Anyone with information can contact Det Con Hanson at Basingstoke police station on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.