Two robbers who mugged a young boy, and a shoplifter who fled with hundreds of pounds' worth of stock, were caught on camera.

Police have issued security camera footage of the trio, in the hope that members of the public will recognise their faces. Two youths were taped on a shop's CCTV system in Atkyns Close, Wood Farm, Oxford, at about 4.45pm on December 29 last year.

Minutes later officers believe they mugged a teenage boy.

Dc Iain Spencer said: "A 14-year-old boy was walking along a footpath near Atkyns Road. He was stopped by two youths, pushed up against a wall and had his mobile phone stolen.

"The pair who committed the robbery were seen prior to the attack in one of the shops."

The cameras show one of the wanted youths in a blue hooded top and cap walking around the shop eating a packet of crisps. He is described as black, aged about 16 or 17, and skinny.

The second is seen using a mobile phone near the front entrance. He is believed to be about 18 or 19, black, 6ft, and wore a New York Yankees baseball cap. He had a deep voice, with an African accent.

Police are also asking for help to identify a shoplifter caught on a security camera who stole clothes from Go Outdoors, at Redbridge Oxford, at about 6.15pm on Tuesday, December 20.

He walked around the store before picking up three North Face jackets, worth almost £500 and set off the security alarm as he ran out of the shop, before driving off in a Fiat Punto.

Pc Jane Crump said: "He had a browse around - we even catch a glimpse of him trying on one of the coats he's about to steal.

"If you know this man indulging in some criminal Christmas shopping, please get in touch."

The wanted shoplifter is described as of medium build, wearing a grey and white striped jumper, white trainers with short black hair and a moustache.

Anyone who recognises any of the faces from the CCTV should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.